2004 Audi A3 vs. 1966 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Lotus Elan (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 509 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Because 1966 Lotus Elan 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 1966 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Audi A3 (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1966 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A3 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1557 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 696 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 45 L |
