1980 Lotus Esprit vs. 1999 Audi S3
To start off, 1999 Audi S3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Audi S3 (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Audi S3 weights approximately 410 kg more than 1980 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Audi S3 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, 1999 Audi S3 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, 1999 Audi S3 (270 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1999 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lotus Esprit | 1999 Audi S3 | |
| Make | Lotus | Audi |
| Model | Esprit | S3 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 42 L |
