2008 Audi A3 vs. 1988 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 20 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 307 kg more than 1988 Lotus Esprit.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lotus Esprit. (298 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1988 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A3 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 215 HP |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1188 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 31 L |
