2006 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 1,982 cc, 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (197 HP) has 81 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elise. (116 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 705 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Audi A3 (280 Nm) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elise. (169 Nm). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1996 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A3 | Elise |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 1796 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 116 HP |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 197 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.9 seconds | 5.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 13.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 40 L |
