2004 Audi A3 vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (208 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 365 kg more than 1981 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 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, 2004 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (277 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lotus Esprit. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1981 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1981 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A3 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 277 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 71 L |
