2012 Audi A3 vs. 1964 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1964 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1964 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 870 kg more than 1964 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 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 1964 Lotus Elan. 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Lotus Elan. (138 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Lotus Elan. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1964 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1964 Lotus Elan 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:
2012 Audi A3 | 1964 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Audi | Lotus |
Model | A3 | Elan |
Year Released | 2012 | 1964 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 138 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 590 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3700 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1430 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1150 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2140 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |