1981 Audi 80 vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Audi 80 would be higher. At 2,144 cc (5 cylinders), 1981 Audi 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1981 Audi 80. (136 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Audi 80 weights approximately 170 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Because 1981 Audi 80 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Audi 80 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 80. (176 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Audi 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Audi 80 | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | 80 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2144 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2260 mm |
