UK vs United Kingdom — 1976 vs 2015
| Esprit S1 | Elise Sport 190 Sport 190 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 160 hp | 189 hp |
| Torque | 140 lb-ft | 133 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,973 cc | 1,798 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.8 sec | 4.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 138 mph | 140 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.0 sec | 12.9 sec |
| Weight | 2,000 lbs | 1,980 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,438 mm | 2,301 mm |
| Length | 4,191 mm | 3,785 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,049 | 850 |
| Original MSRP | $16,000 | $48,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $90,000 | $58,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 10/10 |
The 2015 Lotus Elise Sport 190 Sport 190 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1976 Lotus Esprit S1 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.
Within the Lotus stable, the 1976 Lotus Esprit S1 and 2015 Lotus Elise Sport 190 Sport 190 represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Lotus badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 2015 Lotus Elise Sport 190 Sport 190 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 189 hp compared to 160 hp, a 29-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lotus Esprit uses a Inline-4 DOHC 16V 907 displacing 1,973 cc, while the Lotus Elise Sport 190 relies on a 1.8L Supercharged I4 with 1,798 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2015 Lotus Elise Sport 190 Sport 190 edges ahead at 4.2 seconds versus 6.8 seconds. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference. From a collectibility standpoint, the 2015 Lotus Elise Sport 190 Sport 190 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.