1989 Audi 80 vs. 1969 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1989 Audi 80 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Audi 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Lotus Elan (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1989 Audi 80. (67 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1989 Audi 80.
Because 1969 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 1969 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1969 Lotus Elan (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Audi 80. (129 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1969 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Audi 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Audi 80 | 1969 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | 80 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2440 mm |
