1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Audi A6
To start off, 2012 Audi A6 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A6 (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A6 should accelerate faster 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, 2012 Audi A6, 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 A6 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A6 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 A6 | |
| Make | Lotus | Audi |
| Model | Elan | A6 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4915 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1453 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2911 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 75 L |
