2003 Audi A8 vs. 1986 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 3,936 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A8 (276 HP) has 61 more horse power than 1986 Lotus Esprit. (215 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1986 Lotus Esprit.
Because 2003 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 will offer significantly more control. 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 A8 (650 Nm) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Lotus Esprit. (405 Nm). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Lotus Esprit. 2003 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1986 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1986 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 1986 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A8 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 215 HP |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 405 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2440 mm |
