2005 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2008 Lotus Elise is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Audi A3 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 28 more horse power than 2008 Lotus Elise. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A3 weights approximately 434 kg more than 2008 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Lotus Elise 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 2008 Lotus Elise. 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 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Lotus Elise. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 2008 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A3 | Elise |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 89.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 5.3 seconds |
| 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 | 881 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 32 L |
