1989 Audi Coupe vs. 2012 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2012 Lotus Elise is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Audi Coupe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Audi Coupe would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Audi Coupe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1989 Audi Coupe. (111 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1989 Audi Coupe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Audi Coupe weights approximately 218 kg more than 2012 Lotus Elise.
Because 2012 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 2012 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Audi Coupe, 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, 2012 Lotus Elise (180 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Audi Coupe. (173 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Audi Coupe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Audi Coupe | 2012 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | Coupe | Elise |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 912 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 3785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1118 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2299 mm |
