2009 Audi A3 vs. 1987 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1987 Lotus Esprit. (172 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 174 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1987 Lotus Esprit is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1987 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 1987 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 1987 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Audi A3 | 1987 Lotus Esprit | |
Make | Audi | Lotus |
Model | A3 | Esprit |
Year Released | 2009 | 1987 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1948 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 | 172 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 221 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 95.3 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 76.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.9:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1104 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4340 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1140 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2460 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 67 L |