2009 Audi A4 vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 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, both vehicles can yield 158 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 190 kg more than 2009 Audi A4.
Because 1981 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 1981 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4, 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 A4 (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lotus Esprit. 2009 Audi A4 has automatic transmission and 1981 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1981 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A4 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 67 L |
