1980 Lotus Esprit vs. 2007 Volkswagen Caravelle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Caravelle is newer by 27 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Caravelle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Caravelle (232 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (208 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Caravelle should accelerate faster than 1980 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Caravelle weights approximately 1138 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 2007 Volkswagen Caravelle 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, 2007 Volkswagen Caravelle 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, 2007 Volkswagen Caravelle (315 Nm @ 2950 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (277 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Caravelle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lotus Esprit | 2007 Volkswagen Caravelle | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Esprit | Caravelle |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 277 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1206 kg | 2344 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 80 L |
