1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 Audi A3
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Lotus Elan (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A3 weights approximately 376 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Because 1969 Lotus Elan 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 1969 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Audi A3 (149 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan. 2005 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1969 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1969 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1969 Lotus Elan | 2005 Audi A3 | |
Make | Lotus | Audi |
Model | Elan | A3 |
Year Released | 1969 | 2005 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1595 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 101 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 149 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 77.4 mm |
Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 889 kg | 1265 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2470 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |