2009 Chevrolet Traverse vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 3,599 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (281 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 1981 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Traverse weights approximately 141 kg more than 1981 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse, 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, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (361 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Traverse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lotus Esprit. 2009 Chevrolet Traverse has automatic transmission and 1981 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1981 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Traverse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Traverse | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Traverse | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3599 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 281 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 361 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 67 L |
