2004 Audi A3 vs. 1984 Lotus Etna
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Lotus Etna. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Lotus Etna would be higher. At 3,946 cc (8 cylinders), 1984 Lotus Etna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Lotus Etna (331 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 230 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Lotus Etna should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3.
Because 1984 Lotus Etna 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 1984 Lotus Etna. 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, 1984 Lotus Etna (408 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1984 Lotus Etna will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1984 Lotus Etna | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A3 | Etna |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 331 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 408 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 69.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 290 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2520 mm |
