1996 Audi A8 vs. 2002 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2002 Lotus Esprit is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A8 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A8 (300 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2002 Lotus Esprit. (240 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A8 weights approximately 412 kg more than 2002 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A8 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, 1996 Audi A8 (400 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Lotus Esprit. (294 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Lotus Esprit. 1996 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2002 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 2002 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A8 | 2002 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A8 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 1974 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 294 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1308 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2430 mm |
