1994 Lotus Elan vs. 2011 Audi A3
To start off, 2011 Audi A3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1994 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1994 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi A3 weights approximately 550 kg more than 1994 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Audi A3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1994 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi A3 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, 2011 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2011 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Lotus Elan | 2011 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Lotus | Audi |
| Model | Elan | A3 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2578 mm |
