1982 Lotus Esprit vs. 2010 Audi S3
To start off, 2010 Audi S3 is newer by 28 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, 2010 Audi S3 (252 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1982 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1982 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Audi S3 weights approximately 388 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 2010 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1982 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Audi S3 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, 2010 Audi S3 (331 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2010 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Lotus Esprit | 2010 Audi S3 | |
| Make | Lotus | Audi |
| Model | Esprit | S3 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2010 |
| 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 | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 331 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 5.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1067 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 60 L |
