1980 Lotus Esprit vs. 2010 Audi A1

To start off, 2010 Audi A1 is newer by 30 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 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Lotus Esprit (208 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 2010 Audi A1. (120 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2010 Audi A1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 166 kg more than 2010 Audi A1. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 2010 Audi A1, 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 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Audi A1. (200 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Audi A1.

Compare all specifications:

1980 Lotus Esprit 2010 Audi A1
Make Lotus Audi
Model Esprit A1
Year Released 1980 2010
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Middle Front
Engine Size 2172 cc 1390 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 208 HP 120 HP
Engine RPM 6250 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 277 Nm 200 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1206 kg 1040 kg
Vehicle Length 4200 mm 3954 mm
Vehicle Width 1870 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1120 mm 1416 mm
Wheelbase Size 2450 mm 2469 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 67 L 34 L