2008 Audi R8 vs. 1980 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2008 Audi R8 is newer by 28 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 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi R8 (420 HP @ 8250 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (208 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 46 kg more than 2008 Audi R8.
Because 2008 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi R8 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 R8 (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (277 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi R8 | 1980 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | R8 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 420 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8250 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 277 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1206 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 67 L |
