1991 Lotus Esprit vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,323 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Esprit (172 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (167 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 64 kg more than 1991 Lotus Esprit.
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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
1991 Lotus Esprit | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Esprit | Golf |
Year Released | 1991 | 1997 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2323 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 172 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 221 Nm | 225 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1239 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 55 L |