2004 Audi A4 vs. 1971 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,784 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A4 (170 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 780 kg more than 1971 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4, 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 A4 (235 Nm) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm). This means 2004 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 1971 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A4 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1784 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 59 L |
