2009 Audi A8 vs. 1993 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,965 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1993 Lotus Elan. (164 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1993 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Lotus Elan weights approximately 90 kg more than 2009 Audi A8.
Because 2009 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1993 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 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 A8 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Lotus Elan. 2009 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1993 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1993 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 1993 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | A8 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1993 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2965 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2260 mm |
