1964 Lotus Elan vs. 2007 Audi A3
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1964 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1964 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A3 weights approximately 1024 kg more than 1964 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1964 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Audi A3 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, 2007 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Lotus Elan. (138 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Lotus Elan. 2007 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1964 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1964 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Lotus Elan | 2007 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Lotus | Audi |
| Model | Elan | A3 |
| Year Released | 1964 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.7 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 590 kg | 1614 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
