1985 Audi 100 vs. 1989 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1989 Lotus Esprit is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Audi 100 would be higher. At 2,226 cc (5 cylinders), 1985 Audi 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Esprit (264 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1985 Audi 100. (134 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1985 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 33 kg more than 1985 Audi 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Audi 100, 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, 1989 Lotus Esprit (353 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Audi 100. (186 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Audi 100 | 1989 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | 100 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2226 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 264 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 256 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2460 mm |
