1991 Audi S2 vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1991 Audi S2 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,226 cc (5 cylinders), 1991 Audi S2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Audi S2 (216 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (159 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Audi S2 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Audi S2 weights approximately 353 kg more than 1981 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Audi S2 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Audi S2 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1991 Audi S2 (309 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1991 Audi S2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Audi S2 | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | S2 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2226 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 159 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 309 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.1 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.3 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 31 L |
