1999 Audi A4 vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1999 Audi A4 is newer by 18 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 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lotus Esprit (159 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1999 Audi A4. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1999 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Audi A4 weights approximately 323 kg more than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1999 Audi A4 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, 1999 Audi A4 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, 1981 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi A4. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi A4 | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A4 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 159 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 197 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.3 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 31 L |
