1998 Audi AL2 vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1998 Audi AL2 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 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lotus Esprit (208 HP) has 134 more horse power than 1998 Audi AL2. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi AL2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 384 kg more than 1998 Audi AL2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Audi AL2, 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, 1981 Lotus Esprit (277 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi AL2. (115 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi AL2. 1998 Audi AL2 has automatic transmission and 1981 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1981 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Audi AL2 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi AL2 | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | AL2 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1199 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 208 HP |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 277 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 816 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2450 mm |
