2007 Lotus Elise vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2007 Lotus Elise. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 579 kg more than 2007 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Lotus Elise. (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Lotus Elise | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Lotus | Audi |
| Model | Elise | A3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 881 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 32 L | 55 L |
