2005 Audi A6 vs. 1980 Lotus Esprit

To start off, 2005 Audi A6 is newer by 25 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A6 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1980 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A6 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1980 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 2005 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, 2005 Audi A6 (230 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lotus Esprit.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Audi A6 1980 Lotus Esprit
Make Audi Lotus
Model A6 Esprit
Year Released 2005 1980
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Middle
Engine Size 2494 cc 2174 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 168 HP 158 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 230 Nm 222 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 5000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 81 mm 95.3 mm
Engine Stroke Size 77.4 mm 76.2 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium 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 1380 kg 1120 kg
Vehicle Length 4800 mm 4200 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1870 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1120 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2450 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 67 L