1980 Lotus Esprit vs. 2008 Volkswagen Caravelle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Caravelle is newer by 28 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 2,461 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Caravelle is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Caravelle weights approximately 679 kg more than 1980 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1980 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 1980 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Caravelle, 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, 1980 Lotus Esprit (277 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Caravelle. (251 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1980 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Caravelle. 2008 Volkswagen Caravelle has automatic transmission and 1980 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1980 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Caravelle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lotus Esprit | 2008 Volkswagen Caravelle | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Esprit | Caravelle |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 277 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1206 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2930 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 80 L |
