1998 Audi S8 vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1998 Audi S8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Audi S8 (335 HP) has 172 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (163 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Audi S8 weights approximately 705 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Audi S8 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, 1998 Audi S8 (557 Nm) has 353 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm). This means 1998 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi S8 | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | S8 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 163 HP |
| Torque | 557 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Drive Type | AWD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2260 mm |
