1983 Lotus Esprit vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Lotus Esprit (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 264 kg more than 1983 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1983 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf 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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (315 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Lotus Esprit. (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Lotus Esprit. 1998 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1983 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1983 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Lotus Esprit | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Esprit | Golf |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 10.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1067 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 62 L |
