2005 Audi A8 vs. 1985 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2005 Audi A8 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 3,697 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A8 (271 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1985 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1985 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A8 weights approximately 702 kg more than 1985 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi A8 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, 2005 Audi A8 (360 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Lotus Esprit. (217 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Lotus Esprit. 2005 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1985 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1985 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A8 | 1985 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A8 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3697 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.4 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.9 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1770 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.7 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 31 L |
