2009 Kia Optima vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima 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 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
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 Kia Optima, 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 Kia Optima (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Kia Optima | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
Make | Kia | Lotus |
Model | Optima | Esprit |
Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 2359 cc | 2174 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 229 Nm | 221 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 9.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1120 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2440 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 67 L |