1987 Audi 80 vs. 2011 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2011 Lotus Elise is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Audi 80 would be higher. At 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lotus Elise (217 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1987 Audi 80. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1987 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Audi 80 weights approximately 94 kg more than 2011 Lotus Elise.
Because 2011 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 2011 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 2011 Lotus Elise (210 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Audi 80. (120 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Audi 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Audi 80 | 2011 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | 80 | Elise |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 926 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 3785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1118 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2299 mm |
