1994 Lotus Esprit vs. 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1994 Lotus Esprit is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Lotus Esprit (264 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Because 1994 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 1994 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 1994 Lotus Esprit (480 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 378 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1994 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
1994 Lotus Esprit | 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Esprit | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1994 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2172 cc | 1455 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 264 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 480 Nm | 102 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 73.4 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2410 mm |