1996 Audi A3 vs. 1990 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1990 Lotus Elan.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1990 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1990 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A3 | 1990 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Audi | Lotus |
Model | A3 | Elan |
Year Released | 1996 | 1990 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 173 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2260 mm |