2004 Audi A3 vs. 1974 Lotus Eclat
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lotus Eclat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lotus Eclat would be higher. At 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Lotus Eclat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Eclat (160 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Eclat should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 284 kg more than 1974 Lotus Eclat.
Because 1974 Lotus Eclat 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 1974 Lotus Eclat. 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 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Eclat. (190 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Eclat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1974 Lotus Eclat | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A3 | Eclat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 69.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1106 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 67 L |
