2006 Audi A3 vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 25 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 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (197 HP) has 39 more horse power than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 760 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, 2006 Audi A3, 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, 2006 Audi A3 (281 Nm) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Audi A3 | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
Make | Audi | Lotus |
Model | A3 | Esprit |
Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2174 cc |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 158 HP |
Torque | 281 Nm | 221 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1120 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1120 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2440 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 67 L |