1997 Audi A4 vs. 2011 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2011 Lotus Elise is newer by 14 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 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lotus Elise (217 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1997 Audi A4. (163 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A4 weights approximately 349 kg more than 2011 Lotus Elise.
Because 2011 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 2011 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 (234 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Lotus Elise. (210 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A4 | 2011 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A4 | Elise |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 234 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 926 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1118 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2299 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 44 L |
