1992 Audi 80 vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1992 Audi 80 is newer by 11 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 2,309 cc (5 cylinders), 1992 Audi 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lotus Esprit (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1992 Audi 80. (132 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1992 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Audi 80 weights approximately 250 kg more than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1981 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 1981 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 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, 1981 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Audi 80. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Audi 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Audi 80 | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | 80 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2309 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1120 kg |
