1987 Lotus Esprit vs. 2008 Volkswagen Caravelle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Caravelle is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Caravelle is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Caravelle weights approximately 781 kg more than 1987 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1987 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 1987 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Caravelle, 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, 2008 Volkswagen Caravelle (340 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Caravelle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Lotus Esprit | 2008 Volkswagen Caravelle | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Esprit | Caravelle |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2008 |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.9:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 168 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1104 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.6 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 80 L |
