1981 Audi 80 vs. 2005 Lotus Exige
To start off, 2005 Lotus Exige is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Audi 80 would be higher. At 2,998 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Lotus Exige is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Exige (396 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 260 more horse power than 1981 Audi 80. (136 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Audi 80 weights approximately 340 kg more than 2005 Lotus Exige.
Because 1981 Audi 80 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Lotus Exige. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Audi 80 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, 2005 Lotus Exige (400 Nm @ 6500 RPM) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 80. (176 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Audi 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Audi 80 | 2005 Lotus Exige | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | 80 | Exige |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2144 cc | 2998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 396 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 7750 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2310 mm |
