1991 Lotus Esprit vs. 1972 Volkswagen K 70
To start off, 1991 Lotus Esprit is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volkswagen K 70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volkswagen K 70 would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Esprit (172 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1972 Volkswagen K 70. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1972 Volkswagen K 70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 125 kg more than 1972 Volkswagen K 70. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 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 1991 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 Volkswagen K 70, 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, 1991 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volkswagen K 70. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1991 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volkswagen K 70.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Esprit | 1972 Volkswagen K 70 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Esprit | K 70 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 45 L |
