2012 Audi A3 vs. 1987 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 25 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, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1987 Lotus Esprit. (172 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 356 kg more than 1987 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 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, 2012 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Lotus Esprit. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1987 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1987 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Audi A3 | 1987 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A3 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2000 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 | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1104 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 8.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 16.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 67 L |
