2002 Audi A3 vs. 2003 Lotus Exige
To start off, 2003 Lotus Exige is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lotus Exige (175 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2002 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A3 weights approximately 495 kg more than 2003 Lotus Exige.
Because 2003 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 2003 Lotus Exige. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Audi A3 (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lotus Exige. (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lotus Exige.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A3 | 2003 Lotus Exige | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A3 | Exige |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 232 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 780 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1170 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2310 mm |
