2009 Lincoln MKS vs. 1980 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2009 Lincoln MKS is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Lincoln MKS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lincoln MKS (273 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (208 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lincoln MKS should accelerate faster than 1980 Lotus Esprit.
Because 2009 Lincoln MKS is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Lincoln MKS will offer significantly more control. 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 Lincoln MKS (366 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (277 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Lincoln MKS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lotus Esprit. 2009 Lincoln MKS has automatic transmission and 1980 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1980 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Lincoln MKS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lincoln MKS | 1980 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Lincoln | Lotus |
| Model | MKS | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3724 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 277 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 67 L |
