2009 Audi A4 vs. 1996 Lotus Elan

To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 90 kg more than 2009 Audi A4.

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, 2009 Audi A4 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan. 2009 Audi A4 has automatic transmission and 1996 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1996 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 1996 Lotus Elan
Make Audi Lotus
Model A4 Elan
Year Released 2009 1996
Body Type Convertible 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 197 HP 163 HP
Engine RPM 5100 RPM 6600 RPM
Torque 280 Nm 204 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 4200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 930 kg 1020 kg
Vehicle Length 4580 mm 3810 mm
Vehicle Width 1400 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1780 mm 1240 mm
Wheelbase Size 2660 mm 2260 mm