1971 Audi Variant vs. 2003 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2003 Lotus Esprit is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Audi Variant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Audi Variant would be higher. At 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lotus Esprit (240 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1971 Audi Variant. (53 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1971 Audi Variant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 231 kg more than 1971 Audi Variant. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Lotus Esprit is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Audi Variant, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2003 Lotus Esprit (294 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Audi Variant. (113 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Audi Variant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Audi Variant | 2003 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | Variant | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1696 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 294 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1074 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2430 mm |
