1982 Lotus Esprit vs. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Lotus Esprit (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 1982 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 1982 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 1982 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (165 Nm). This means 1982 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
1982 Lotus Esprit | 1996 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Esprit | Jetta |
Year Released | 1982 | 1996 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2172 cc | 1897 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 221 Nm | 165 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2480 mm |