2004 Audi A6 vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2004 Audi A6 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 2,696 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A6 (179 HP @ 3300 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A6 weights approximately 505 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 1981 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 1981 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Audi A6 (370 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A6 | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A6 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2696 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 179 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | 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 | 1625 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 67 L |
