2009 Chevrolet Nubira vs. 1988 Lotus Esprit

To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Nubira is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Lotus Esprit (215 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 2009 Chevrolet Nubira. (108 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2009 Chevrolet Nubira. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Nubira weights approximately 125 kg more than 1988 Lotus Esprit.

Because 1988 Lotus Esprit is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1988 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Nubira, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1988 Lotus Esprit (298 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Nubira. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Nubira.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Chevrolet Nubira 1988 Lotus Esprit
Make Chevrolet Lotus
Model Nubira Esprit
Year Released 2009 1988
Engine Position Front Middle
Engine Size 1598 cc 2174 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 108 HP 215 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 150 Nm 298 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4250 RPM
Engine Bore Size 79 mm 95.3 mm
Engine Stroke Size 81.5 mm 76.2 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 8.0:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1313 kg 1188 kg
Vehicle Length 4570 mm 4350 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1870 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1160 mm
Wheelbase Size 2610 mm 2440 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 60 L 31 L