1997 Audi A8 vs. 2005 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2005 Lotus Elise is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A8 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Audi A8 (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2005 Lotus Elise. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A8 weights approximately 840 kg more than 2005 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Audi A8, 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 A8 (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Lotus Elise. (174 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 2005 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A8 | Elise |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 89.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 5.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 38 L |
