Japan vs UK — 1985 vs 1982
| MR2 AW11 | Esprit Turbo (Type 82) | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 112 hp | 210 hp |
| Torque | 110 lb-ft | 209 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,587 cc | 2,174 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.1 sec | 5.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 121 mph | 149 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.2 sec | 14.1 sec |
| Weight | 2,149 lbs | 2,707 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,320 mm | 2,438 mm |
| Length | 3,925 mm | 4,191 mm |
| Units Produced | 166,104 | 1,626 |
| Original MSRP | $9,998 | $32,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $25,000 | $65,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 6/10 |
The 1982 Lotus Esprit Turbo (Type 82) emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1985 Toyota MR2 AW11 counters with lighter weight, better value, 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.
When Japan engineering meets UK craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1985 Toyota MR2 AW11 and 1982 Lotus Esprit Turbo (Type 82) embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1982 Lotus Esprit Turbo (Type 82) holds a clear advantage in raw power with 210 hp compared to 112 hp, a 98-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Toyota MR2 uses a Inline-4 DOHC displacing 1,587 cc, while the Lotus Esprit relies on a Inline-4 DOHC Turbo with 2,174 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1982 Lotus Esprit Turbo (Type 82) edges ahead at 5.6 seconds versus 8.1 seconds. The Toyota MR2 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 558 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,626 units built, the 1982 Lotus Esprit Turbo (Type 82) is considerably scarcer than the Toyota MR2's 166,104 examples. On the collector market, the 1982 Lotus Esprit Turbo (Type 82) commands a significant premium over the 1985 Toyota MR2 AW11, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.