2005 Lotus Esprit vs. 1978 Volkswagen Iltis
To start off, 2005 Lotus Esprit is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Iltis 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) has 275 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 80 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Volkswagen Iltis is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Iltis 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 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 264 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. (136 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lotus Esprit | 1978 Volkswagen Iltis | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Esprit | Iltis |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3506 cc | 1714 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 349 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2110 mm |
