2007 Audi S3 vs. 1980 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2007 Audi S3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi S3 (262 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi S3 weights approximately 335 kg more than 1980 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Audi S3 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, 2007 Audi S3 (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2007 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi S3 | 1980 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | S3 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 262 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 67 L |
