2009 Audi A4 vs. 1989 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,698 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Esprit (264 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2009 Audi A4. (187 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 341 kg more than 1989 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1989 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 1989 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 (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Esprit. (353 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1989 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A4 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2698 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 264 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.8:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 31 L |
