2001 Audi A3 vs. 2002 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2002 Lotus Esprit is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,504 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Esprit (350 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 249 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 135 kg more than 2001 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A3, 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, 2002 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2002 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 2002 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A3 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3504 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2430 mm |
