1998 Lotus Elise vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1998 Lotus Elise. (187 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 746 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 A3, 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 A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lotus Elise. (193 Nm @ 5600 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 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 A3 | |
Make | Lotus | Audi |
Model | Elise | A3 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 187 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 193 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 714 kg | 1460 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3740 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1763 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1422 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2578 mm |