2005 Audi TT vs. 1989 Lotus Esprit

To start off, 2005 Audi TT is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Esprit (216 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2005 Audi TT. (178 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi TT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi TT weights approximately 237 kg more than 1989 Lotus Esprit.

Because 1989 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 1989 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi TT, 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, 1989 Lotus Esprit (298 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi TT. (235 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi TT.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Audi TT 1989 Lotus Esprit
Make Audi Lotus
Model TT Esprit
Year Released 2005 1989
Body Type Convertible Coupe
Engine Position Front Middle
Engine Size 1779 cc 2174 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 178 HP 216 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 235 Nm 298 Nm
Torque RPM 1950 RPM 4250 RPM
Engine Bore Size 81 mm 95.3 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86.4 mm 76.2 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 8.0:1
Top Speed 222 km/hour 245 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1385 kg 1148 kg
Vehicle Length 4050 mm 4200 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1360 mm 1120 mm
Wheelbase Size 2470 mm 2440 mm