2009 Audi A8 vs. 1999 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 3,498 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus Esprit (350 HP) has 121 more horse power than 2009 Audi A8. (229 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 452 kg more than 1999 Lotus Esprit.
Because 2009 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 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 A8 (450 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Lotus Esprit. (400 Nm). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Lotus Esprit. 2009 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1999 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1999 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 1999 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A8 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 350 HP |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 286 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 72 L |
