2005 Lotus Esprit vs. 1974 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Lotus Esprit is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,506 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Esprit (349 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 302 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (47 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 630 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Volkswagen Golf, 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 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm) has 315 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (85 Nm). This means 2005 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lotus Esprit | 1974 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Esprit | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3506 cc | 1091 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 349 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 282 km/hour | 140 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.8 seconds | 16.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 45 L |
