1979 Lotus Esprit vs. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 32 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 45 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. (115 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta.
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, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. (169 Nm). This means 1979 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lotus Esprit | 2011 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Esprit | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 115 HP |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2651 mm |
