2005 Audi A3 vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (116 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A3 weights approximately 675 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1968 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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 (330 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A3 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
