2003 Audi A6 vs. 1980 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2003 Audi A6 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,698 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Lotus Esprit (208 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2003 Audi A6. (178 HP @ 3300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A6 weights approximately 489 kg more than 1980 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1980 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 1980 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A6, 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, 2003 Audi A6 (370 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (277 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A6 | 1980 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A6 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2698 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3300 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 277 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 1206 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 67 L |
