1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2013 Audi A4
To start off, 2013 Audi A4 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Audi A4 (208 HP) has 45 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Audi A4 weights approximately 660 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Audi A4 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Audi A4 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, 2013 Audi A4 (350 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2013 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 2013 Audi A4 | |
| Make | Lotus | Audi |
| Model | Elan | A4 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 208 HP |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4703 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 2006 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1427 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2808 mm |
