2001 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Lotus Exige
To start off, 2012 Lotus Exige is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lotus Exige (257 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A3 weights approximately 386 kg more than 2012 Lotus Exige.
Because 2012 Lotus Exige 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 2012 Lotus Exige. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Lotus Exige. (236 Nm @ 6000 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Lotus Exige.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 2012 Lotus Exige | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A3 | Exige |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 257 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 909 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3797 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1727 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1158 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2299 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 44 L |
