2009 Daihatsu Copen vs. 1979 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2009 Daihatsu Copen is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Lotus Esprit (160 HP) has 74 more horse power than 2009 Daihatsu Copen. (86 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2009 Daihatsu Copen.
Because 1979 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 1979 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Daihatsu Copen, 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, 1979 Lotus Esprit (217 Nm) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Daihatsu Copen. (120 Nm). This means 1979 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Daihatsu Copen.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Daihatsu Copen | 1979 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Lotus |
| Model | Copen | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2440 mm |
