2009 Audi A4 vs. 1971 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 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 3,123 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (252 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 60 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 2009 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 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, 2009 Audi A4 (331 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan. 2009 Audi A4 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 A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1971 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A4 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3123 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 331 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 59 L |
