2005 Audi A3 vs. 1960 Lotus Elite
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1960 Lotus Elite. (71 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1960 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A3 weights approximately 733 kg more than 1960 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1960 Lotus Elite 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 1960 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Audi A3 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Lotus Elite. (104 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 1960 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A3 | Elite |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1960 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1216 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 66.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 582 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 29 L |
