1997 Lotus Elise vs. 2010 Audi A5
To start off, 2010 Audi A5 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Audi A5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Audi A5 (261 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1997 Lotus Elise. (117 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Audi A5 should accelerate faster than 1997 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Audi A5 weights approximately 1055 kg more than 1997 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Audi A5, 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, 2010 Audi A5 (330 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Lotus Elise. (169 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Audi A5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Lotus Elise | 2010 Audi A5 | |
| Make | Lotus | Audi |
| Model | Elise | A5 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 117 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 705 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4623 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1382 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 67 L |
