1991 Audi 80 vs. 1986 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1991 Audi 80 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Lotus Esprit (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1991 Audi 80. (115 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1991 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Audi 80 weights approximately 173 kg more than 1986 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1986 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 1986 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1986 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Audi 80. (168 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1986 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Audi 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Audi 80 | 1986 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | 80 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 31 L |
