1954 DKW Munga vs. 1980 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1980 Lotus Esprit is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 DKW Munga. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 DKW Munga would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Lotus Esprit (210 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1954 DKW Munga. (37 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1954 DKW Munga. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 DKW Munga weights approximately 61 kg more than 1980 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1954 DKW Munga is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1954 DKW Munga will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1980 Lotus Esprit (271 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 DKW Munga. (71 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1980 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 DKW Munga.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 DKW Munga | 1980 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | DKW | Lotus |
| Model | Munga | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 896 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 37 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 95.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1219 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2440 mm |
