1997 Audi A4 vs. 2003 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2003 Lotus Elise is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A4 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Audi A4 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2003 Lotus Elise. (121 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 2003 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A4 weights approximately 690 kg more than 2003 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Audi A4, 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, 1997 Audi A4 (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lotus Elise. (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A4 | 2003 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A4 | Elise |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 121 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 89.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2310 mm |
