2006 Audi A3 vs. 1990 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,981 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1990 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 860 kg more than 1990 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Audi A3 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Audi A3 | 1990 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Audi | Lotus |
Model | A3 | Elan |
Year Released | 2006 | 1990 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1981 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 281 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2260 mm |