2009 Audi TT vs. 1971 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 Audi TT 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi TT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi TT (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi TT should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi TT 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 1971 Lotus Elan 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 1971 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi TT, 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 TT (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi TT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan. 2009 Audi TT 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 TT will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi TT | 1971 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | TT | Elan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 232 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1360 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 59 L |
