2003 Audi A8 vs. 1996 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elise. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 885 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8, 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, 2003 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elise. (169 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 1996 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A8 | Elise |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.8 L/100km | 13.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 40 L |
