UK vs UK — 1980 vs 1980
| TR8 | Esprit Turbo HC | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 133 hp | 215 hp |
| Torque | 180 lb-ft | 220 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,528 cc | 2,174 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.4 sec | 5.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 120 mph | 152 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.0 sec | 14.2 sec |
| Weight | 2,557 lbs | 2,634 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,159 mm | 2,438 mm |
| Length | 4,064 mm | 4,369 mm |
| Units Produced | 2,722 | 1,400 |
| Original MSRP | $14,000 | $38,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $45,000 | $100,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 6/10 |
Numbers favor the 1980 Lotus Esprit Turbo HC with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1980 Triumph TR8 offers better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
In the world of Sports Car cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1980 Triumph TR8 versus the 1980 Lotus Esprit Turbo HC. Both hail from Malaise era and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. The 1980 Lotus Esprit Turbo HC holds a clear advantage in raw power with 215 hp compared to 133 hp, a 82-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Triumph TR8 uses a V8 OHV 16V displacing 3,528 cc, while the Lotus Esprit Turbo relies on a Inline-4 DOHC Turbo with 2,174 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1980 Lotus Esprit Turbo HC edges ahead at 5.6 seconds versus 8.4 seconds. On the collector market, the 1980 Lotus Esprit Turbo HC commands a significant premium over the 1980 Triumph TR8, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.