2009 Audi TT vs. 1980 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2009 Audi TT is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi TT (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi TT should accelerate faster than 1980 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 225 kg more than 2009 Audi TT.
Because 1980 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 1980 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi TT, 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 TT (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi TT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lotus Esprit. 2009 Audi TT has automatic transmission and 1980 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1980 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi TT will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi TT | 1980 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | TT | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | 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 | 200 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 222 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 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 67 L |
