2009 Audi A3 vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 370 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1989 Lotus Elan (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A3 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
