1979 Lotus Esprit vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 33 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (266 HP) has 106 more horse power than 1979 Lotus Esprit. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1979 Lotus Esprit.
Because 2012 Volkswagen Golf is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (350 Nm) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lotus Esprit. (217 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lotus Esprit | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Esprit | Golf |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| 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 | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 266 HP |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Top Speed | 218 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2578 mm |
