1986 Audi 100 vs. 2002 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2002 Lotus Esprit is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Audi 100 would be higher. At 3,504 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Esprit (350 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 276 more horse power than 1986 Audi 100. (74 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1986 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 260 kg more than 1986 Audi 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 2002 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 261 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Audi 100. (139 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Audi 100 | 2002 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | 100 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3504 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 139 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2430 mm |
