1987 Audi 90 vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Audi 90. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Audi 90 would be higher. At 2,309 cc (5 cylinders), 1987 Audi 90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1987 Audi 90. (135 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1987 Audi 90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Audi 90 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Because 1987 Audi 90 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, 1987 Audi 90 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 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Audi 90. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Audi 90.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Audi 90 | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | 90 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2309 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2260 mm |
