1987 Audi 80 vs. 1989 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1989 Lotus Esprit is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Audi 80 would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Esprit (264 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 1987 Audi 80. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1987 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 309 kg more than 1987 Audi 80. 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, 1987 Audi 80, 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 233 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Audi 80. (120 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Audi 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Audi 80 | 1989 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | 80 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 264 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2460 mm |
