1985 Audi 100 vs. 2012 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2012 Lotus Elise is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Audi 100 would be higher. At 2,144 cc (5 cylinders), 1985 Audi 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1985 Audi 100. (136 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1985 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Audi 100 weights approximately 318 kg more than 2012 Lotus Elise.
Because 2012 Lotus Elise 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 2012 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Audi 100, 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, both vehicles can yield 180 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Audi 100 | 2012 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | 100 | Elise |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2144 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 912 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 3785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1118 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2299 mm |
