1985 Audi 80 vs. 1974 Lotus Elite
To start off, 1985 Audi 80 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Lotus Elite is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Elite (142 HP) has 83 more horse power than 1985 Audi 80. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1985 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Lotus Elite weights approximately 130 kg more than 1985 Audi 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Lotus Elite 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 1974 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Audi 80, 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, 1974 Lotus Elite (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Audi 80. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1974 Lotus Elite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Audi 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Audi 80 | 1974 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | 80 | Elite |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 142 HP |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 67 L |
