2009 Audi A3 vs. 1971 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 546 kg more than 1971 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Lotus Elan 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 1971 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1971 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1971 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1971 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A3 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1416 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 59 L |
