1981 Lotus Esprit vs. 2009 Volkswagen CC
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen CC is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen CC (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen CC should accelerate faster than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1981 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 1981 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen CC, 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, 1981 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen CC. (207 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1981 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen CC.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lotus Esprit | 2009 Volkswagen CC | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Esprit | CC |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 207 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1860 mm |
