Germany vs UK — 1975 vs 1982
| 911 Turbo (930) | Esprit Turbo (Type 82) | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 210 hp |
| Torque | 304 lb-ft | 209 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,299 cc | 2,174 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.0 sec | 5.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 162 mph | 149 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.5 sec | 14.1 sec |
| Weight | 2,866 lbs | 2,707 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,272 mm | 2,438 mm |
| Length | 4,291 mm | 4,191 mm |
| Units Produced | 21,589 | 1,626 |
| Original MSRP | $62,000 | $32,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $300,000 | $65,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 6/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1975 Porsche 911 Turbo (930) offers more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed, while the 1982 Lotus Esprit Turbo (Type 82) counters with lighter weight, greater rarity, better value. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.
When Germany engineering meets UK craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1975 Porsche 911 Turbo (930) and 1982 Lotus Esprit Turbo (Type 82) embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1975 Porsche 911 Turbo (930) holds a clear advantage in raw power with 300 hp compared to 210 hp, a 90-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Porsche 911 uses a Flat-6 SOHC Turbocharged air-cooled displacing 3,299 cc, while the Lotus Esprit relies on a Inline-4 DOHC Turbo with 2,174 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1975 Porsche 911 Turbo (930) edges ahead at 5.0 seconds versus 5.6 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,626 units built, the 1982 Lotus Esprit Turbo (Type 82) is considerably scarcer than the Porsche 911's 21,589 examples. On the collector market, the 1975 Porsche 911 Turbo (930) commands a significant premium over the 1982 Lotus Esprit Turbo (Type 82), reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.