2009 Lotus Elise vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (140 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 555 kg more than 2009 Lotus Elise.
Because 2009 Lotus Elise 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 2009 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3, 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, 2012 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Lotus Elise. (181 Nm @ 6800 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Lotus Elise. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2009 Lotus Elise has manual transmission. 2009 Lotus Elise will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Lotus Elise | 2012 Audi A3 | |
Make | Lotus | Audi |
Model | Elise | A3 |
Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 181 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 6800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1505 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1763 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1422 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |