1999 Audi A4 vs. 1982 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1999 Audi A4 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Lotus Esprit (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1999 Audi A4. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 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 218 kg more than 1982 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1982 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 1982 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1982 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi A4. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1982 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 | 1982 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A4 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 158 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 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 31 L |
