1996 Audi A3 vs. 1987 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Lotus Esprit (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 79 kg more than 1987 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1987 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 1987 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3, 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, 1987 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1987 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A3 | 1987 Lotus Esprit | |
Make | Audi | Lotus |
Model | A3 | Esprit |
Year Released | 1996 | 1987 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2174 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 160 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 144 Nm | 221 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 95.4 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 76.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1067 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1120 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2490 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 31 L |