1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 43 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 571 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 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 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1969 Lotus Elan | 2012 Audi A3 | |
Make | Lotus | Audi |
Model | Elan | A3 |
Year Released | 1969 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 889 kg | 1460 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1763 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1422 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |