1983 Lotus Esprit vs. 2010 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 27 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, 2010 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1983 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1983 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 309 kg more than 1983 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2010 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Lotus Esprit. (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Lotus Esprit | 2010 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Esprit | GTI |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1067 kg | 1376 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4211 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 55 L |
