1996 Audi A3 vs. 1962 Lotus Elite
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (100 HP) has 17 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 474 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Lotus Elite 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 1962 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3, 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, 1996 Audi A3 (136 Nm) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1962 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A3 | Elite |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1962 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1215 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 83 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 66.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1190 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2240 mm |
