1996 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2004 Lotus Elise is newer by 8 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), 2004 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Lotus Elise (120 HP) has 20 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 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 384 kg more than 2004 Lotus Elise.
Because 2004 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 2004 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, 2004 Lotus Elise (172 Nm) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Lotus Elise | |
Make | Audi | Lotus |
Model | A3 | Elise |
Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 120 HP |
Torque | 136 Nm | 172 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 89.3 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 750 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1150 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2310 mm |