2006 Audi S4 vs. 1988 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2006 Audi S4 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi S4 (340 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1988 Lotus Esprit. (172 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1988 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi S4 weights approximately 102 kg more than 1988 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi S4, 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 S4 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S4 | 1988 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | S4 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1278 kg | 1176 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2440 mm |
