1981 Lotus Esprit vs. 2012 Audi Q3
To start off, 2012 Audi Q3 is newer by 31 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, 2012 Audi Q3 (168 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi Q3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
Because 2012 Audi Q3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi Q3 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, 2012 Audi Q3 (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi Q3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lotus Esprit | 2012 Audi Q3 | |
| Make | Lotus | Audi |
| Model | Esprit | Q3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1600 mm |
