2009 Audi A3 vs. 2003 Lotus Exige
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lotus Exige. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lotus Exige would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2003 Lotus Exige. (175 HP @ 7800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Lotus Exige. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 250 kg more than 2003 Lotus Exige. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Lotus Exige 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 2003 Lotus Exige. 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 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lotus Exige. (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lotus Exige. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2003 Lotus Exige has manual transmission. 2003 Lotus Exige 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 | 2003 Lotus Exige | |
Make | Audi | Lotus |
Model | A3 | Exige |
Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 7800 RPM |
Torque | 281 Nm | 168 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 7.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 780 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3800 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1170 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2310 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 36 L |