1998 Audi A8 vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1998 Audi A8 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Audi A8 (340 HP) has 132 more horse power than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (208 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1998 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Audi A8 (556 Nm) has 279 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (277 Nm). This means 1998 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A8 | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A8 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 208 HP |
| Torque | 556 Nm | 277 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2450 mm |
