1999 Lotus Esprit vs. 1998 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1999 Lotus Esprit is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 3,498 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus Esprit (350 HP) has 301 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 418 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 1999 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm) has 314 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (86 Nm). This means 1999 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Lotus Esprit | 1998 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Esprit | Polo |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1378 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2410 mm |
