1998 Lotus Elise vs. 2012 Audi A1
To start off, 2012 Audi A1 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A1 (120 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1998 Lotus Elise. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A1 should accelerate faster than 1998 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A1 weights approximately 335 kg more than 1998 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi A1, 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, 2012 Audi A1 (200 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lotus Elise. (165 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Lotus Elise | 2012 Audi A1 | |
Make | Lotus | Audi |
Model | Elise | A1 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1390 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 116 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 200 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 705 kg | 1040 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 3954 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1416 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2469 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 34 L |