UK vs Germany — 1976 vs 1981
| Esprit S1 | 930 Turbo Flachbau Slantnose | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 160 hp | 330 hp |
| Torque | 140 lb-ft | 318 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,973 cc | 3,299 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.8 sec | 4.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 138 mph | 168 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.0 sec | 12.8 sec |
| Weight | 2,000 lbs | 2,943 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,438 mm | 2,272 mm |
| Length | 4,191 mm | 4,291 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,049 | 948 |
| Original MSRP | $16,000 | $85,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $90,000 | $650,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 8/10 |
The 1981 Porsche 930 Turbo Flachbau Slantnose emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1976 Lotus Esprit S1 counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
When UK engineering meets Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1976 Lotus Esprit S1 and 1981 Porsche 930 Turbo Flachbau Slantnose embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1981 Porsche 930 Turbo Flachbau Slantnose holds a clear advantage in raw power with 330 hp compared to 160 hp, a 170-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lotus Esprit uses a Inline-4 DOHC 16V 907 displacing 1,973 cc, while the Porsche 930 Turbo relies on a Flat-6 SOHC Turbocharged 12V with 3,299 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1981 Porsche 930 Turbo Flachbau Slantnose edges ahead at 4.6 seconds versus 6.8 seconds. The Lotus Esprit carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 943 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1981 Porsche 930 Turbo Flachbau Slantnose commands a significant premium over the 1976 Lotus Esprit S1, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.