2001 Audi A3 vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2001 Audi A3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A3 weights approximately 205 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2001 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Audi A3 | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Audi | Lotus |
Model | A3 | Elan |
Year Released | 2001 | 1989 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 165 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 201 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 80.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2260 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |