2006 Audi S3 vs. 1997 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2006 Audi S3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1997 Lotus Elise. (117 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi S3 weights approximately 725 kg more than 1997 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Lotus Elise. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi S3 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, 2006 Audi S3 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Lotus Elise. (169 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S3 | 1997 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | S3 | Elise |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 117 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 89.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 705 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.2 L/100km | 13.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 40 L |
