2009 Audi A3 vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 425 kg more than 1981 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Audi A3 | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
Make | Audi | Lotus |
Model | A3 | Esprit |
Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
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 | 197 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 221 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1120 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1120 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2440 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 67 L |