2003 Lotus Esprit vs. 1982 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2003 Lotus Esprit is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lotus Esprit (240 HP) has 201 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 605 kg more than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Volkswagen Polo, 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 Lotus Esprit (294 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. (75 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2003 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lotus Esprit | 1982 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Esprit | Polo |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 39 HP |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 75 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2400 mm |
