1997 Audi A4 vs. 2004 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2004 Lotus Esprit is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A4 would be higher. At 3,507 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Lotus Esprit (350 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 250 more horse power than 1997 Audi A4. (100 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 185 kg more than 1997 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Audi A4, 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, 2004 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Audi A4. (140 Nm). This means 2004 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A4 | 2004 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A4 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3507 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2430 mm |
