1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Audi R8
To start off, 2012 Audi R8 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 5,200 cc (10 cylinders), 2012 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi R8 (525 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 407 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Because 2012 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1969 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 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, 2012 Audi R8 (530 Nm @ 6500 RPM) has 384 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan. 2012 Audi R8 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. 2012 Audi R8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 2012 Audi R8 | |
| Make | Lotus | Audi |
| Model | Elan | R8 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 5200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 525 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1905 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 90 L |
