2003 Audi A4 vs. 1991 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2003 Audi A4 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Esprit (172 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2003 Audi A4. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A4 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1991 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1991 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 1991 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1991 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A4. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1991 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A4 | 1991 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A4 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 73 L |
