2009 Ford Focus vs. 1989 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Esprit (264 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 2009 Ford Focus. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 122 kg more than 1989 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1989 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 1989 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus, 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, 1989 Lotus Esprit (353 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Focus. (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 1989 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Focus | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 264 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 256 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1451 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 31 L |
