Lotus Esprit

vs

Dodge Stealth R/T Twin Turbo

United Kingdom vs USA — 1986 vs 1991

Lotus Esprit (1986)
Dodge Stealth R/T Twin Turbo (1991)
Specifications
Esprit Turbo HCStealth R/T Twin Turbo 3.0 V6 TT AWD
Horsepower215 hp300 hp
Torque206 lb-ft307 lb-ft
Engine Size2,174 cc2,972 cc
0-60 mph5.4 sec5.0 sec
Top Speed152 mph159 mph
¼ Mile13.8 sec13.6 sec
Weight3,801 lbs
Wheelbase2,438 mm2,470 mm
Length4,191 mm4,560 mm
Original MSRP$33,625
Value (Excellent)$45,000
Collectibility5/107/10
Rarity7/106/10
The Verdict

The 1991 Dodge Stealth R/T Twin Turbo 3.0 V6 TT AWD emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1986 Lotus Esprit Turbo HC counters with its unique character, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

Putting the 1986 Lotus Esprit Turbo HC against the 1991 Dodge Stealth R/T Twin Turbo 3.0 V6 TT AWD is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — United Kingdom versus USA. The 1991 Dodge Stealth R/T Twin Turbo 3.0 V6 TT AWD holds a clear advantage in raw power with 300 hp compared to 215 hp, a 85-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lotus Esprit uses a Inline-4 DOHC 16V Turbo displacing 2,174 cc, while the Dodge Stealth R/T Twin Turbo relies on a V6 DOHC 24-valve Twin-Turbo with 2,972 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1991 Dodge Stealth R/T Twin Turbo 3.0 V6 TT AWD edges ahead at 5.0 seconds versus 5.4 seconds. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1991 Dodge Stealth R/T Twin Turbo 3.0 V6 TT AWD rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.