2008 Audi A3 vs. 1959 Lotus Elite

To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Elite. (71 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 975 kg more than 1959 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1959 Lotus Elite. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Lotus Elite. (104 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Lotus Elite.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Audi A3 1959 Lotus Elite
Make Audi Lotus
Model A3 Elite
Year Released 2008 1959
Body Type Hatchback Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3189 cc 1216 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 247 HP 71 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 6100 RPM
Torque 320 Nm 104 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 3750 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 11.3:1 10.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1555 kg 580 kg
Vehicle Length 4220 mm 3710 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1510 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1190 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2240 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 29 L