2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 1982 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Lotus Esprit (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2009 Dodge Caliber. (154 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2009 Dodge Caliber. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 358 kg more than 1982 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1982 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 1982 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber, 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, 1982 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Caliber. (190 Nm @ 5100 RPM). This means 1982 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Caliber. 2009 Dodge Caliber has automatic transmission and 1982 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1982 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Dodge Caliber will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Caliber | 1982 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Dodge | Lotus |
| Model | Caliber | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.3 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 31 L |
