1989 Audi 200 vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1989 Audi 200 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,226 cc (5 cylinders), 1989 Audi 200 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Audi 200 (136 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (116 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Audi 200 should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Audi 200 weights approximately 440 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Lotus Elan 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 1968 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Audi 200, 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, 1989 Audi 200 (188 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Audi 200 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Audi 200 | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | 200 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2226 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 45 L |
