1997 Audi A8 vs. 1980 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1997 Audi A8 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Lotus Esprit (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1997 Audi A8. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A8 weights approximately 475 kg more than 1980 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1980 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 1980 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Audi A8, 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, 1997 Audi A8 (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Audi A8 | 1980 Lotus Esprit | |
Make | Audi | Lotus |
Model | A8 | Esprit |
Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2174 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 310 Nm | 222 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 95.3 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 76.2 mm |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1120 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1120 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2450 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 67 L |