2009 Audi TT vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 Audi TT is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi TT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi TT (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Elan. (165 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi TT should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi TT weights approximately 315 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 TT (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Audi TT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi TT | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Audi | Lotus |
| Model | TT | Elan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 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 | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
