2008 Audi A3 vs. 1974 Lotus Elite
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Lotus Elite is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Elite (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 485 kg more than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 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 @ 1750 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1974 Lotus Elite has manual transmission. 1974 Lotus Elite will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1974 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A3 | Elite |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1966 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 69.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 67 L |
