1999 Lotus Esprit vs. 2011 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus Esprit (349 HP) has 66 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Routan. (283 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Routan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 1409 kg more than 1999 Lotus Esprit.
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, 2011 Volkswagen Routan, 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, 2011 Volkswagen Routan (352 Nm) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Lotus Esprit. (351 Nm). This means 2011 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Lotus Esprit. 2011 Volkswagen Routan has automatic transmission and 1999 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1999 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volkswagen Routan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Lotus Esprit | 2011 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Esprit | Routan |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3506 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 349 HP | 283 HP |
| Torque | 351 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 675 kg | 2084 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1953 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 3078 mm |
