1991 Lotus Esprit vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 15 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 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Esprit (172 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 65 kg more than 1991 Lotus Esprit.
Because 2006 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf 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 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1991 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Esprit | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Esprit | Golf |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 55 L |
