Japan vs United Kingdom — 2002 vs 1986
| RSX Type-S | Esprit Turbo HC | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 200 hp | 215 hp |
| Torque | 142 lb-ft | 206 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,998 cc | 2,174 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.5 sec | 5.4 sec |
| Top Speed | 137 mph | 152 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.9 sec | 13.8 sec |
| Weight | 2,743 lbs | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,570 mm | 2,438 mm |
| Length | 4,385 mm | 4,191 mm |
| Original MSRP | $23,270 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $28,000 | — |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 7/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 2002 Acura RSX Type-S brings stronger collectibility to the table, and the 1986 Lotus Esprit Turbo HC answers with quicker acceleration, higher top speed. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
The rivalry between Japan and United Kingdom automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 2002 Acura RSX Type-S versus 1986 Lotus Esprit Turbo HC is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 2002 Acura RSX Type-S producing 200 hp and the 1986 Lotus Esprit Turbo HC delivering 215 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Acura RSX uses a Inline-4 DOHC i-VTEC displacing 1,998 cc, while the Lotus Esprit relies on a Inline-4 DOHC 16V Turbo with 2,174 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1986 Lotus Esprit Turbo HC edges ahead at 5.4 seconds versus 6.5 seconds. Each of these machines offers a unique window into the era that produced it, making both worthy of consideration by collectors and drivers alike.