1982 Lotus Esprit vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 26 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, 2008 Volkswagen Polo (200 HP) has 42 more horse power than 1982 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1982 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 154 kg more than 1982 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Volkswagen Polo, 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 @ 5000 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (85 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1982 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Lotus Esprit | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Esprit | Polo |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1067 kg | 1221 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 45 L |
