2005 Audi A6 vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2005 Audi A6 is newer by 24 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 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A6 (217 HP @ 3200 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (208 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A6 weights approximately 335 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, 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 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (277 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lotus Esprit. 2005 Audi A6 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. 2005 Audi A6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A6 | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A6 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 277 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 71 L |
