1996 Audi A3 vs. 2002 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2002 Lotus Elise is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Elise (156 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 334 kg more than 2002 Lotus Elise.
Because 2002 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 2002 Lotus Elise. 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, 2002 Lotus Elise (180 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2002 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A3 | 2002 Lotus Elise | |
Make | Audi | Lotus |
Model | A3 | Elise |
Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 156 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 173 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 89.3 mm |
Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 806 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1150 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2310 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 38 L |