2008 Audi A3 vs. 1986 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Lotus Esprit (215 HP) has 77 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (138 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 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, 1986 Lotus Esprit (405 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (320 Nm). This means 1986 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1986 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1986 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1986 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A3 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1966 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 215 HP |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 405 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 246 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2440 mm |
