2009 Audi A3 vs. 1986 Lotus Excel
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Lotus Excel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Lotus Excel would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Lotus Excel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1986 Lotus Excel. (180 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Lotus Excel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Lotus Excel weights approximately 247 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1986 Lotus Excel 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 1986 Lotus Excel. 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Lotus Excel. (224 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Lotus Excel.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1986 Lotus Excel | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A3 | Excel |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.9:1 |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1177 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1020 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 31 L |
