1979 Lotus Esprit vs. 2005 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Lotus Esprit (160 HP) has 47 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1979 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 1979 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1979 Lotus Esprit (217 Nm) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (155 Nm). This means 1979 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. 2005 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1979 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1979 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lotus Esprit | 2005 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Esprit | Golf |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 113 HP |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 218 km/hour | 189 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2510 mm |
