Revolutionary Eco-Warriors: Audi A2 Meets Honda Insight

Introduction

Both the Audi A2 and Honda Insight celebrate their 25th birthdays this year. These two models were once pioneers of lightweight, fuel-efficient technology, promising to revolutionize the automotive industry. However, they were ahead of their time and failed to gain traction in the market. Now, with the growing focus on cost-saving and environmental conservation, these eco-warriors are more relevant than ever.

Design and Dimensions

The Honda Insight and Audi A2 may have different appearances, but they both prioritize minimal mass and low drag. The Insight features a compact five-door family hatchback design, while the A2 has a slinky, hybrid-assisted coupe design. The Insight’s aerodynamically honed design and teardrop shape result in a drag coefficient of just 0.25. The A2, on the other hand, utilizes Audi’s Aluminum Space Frame design, making it incredibly lightweight.

Interior

The Audi A2’s interior continues to feel modern and upmarket, with an elegantly logical dashboard layout. It offers impressive rear-seat space and a decent-sized boot. In contrast, the Honda Insight’s cabin has not aged well, with cheap plastic trim and outdated switchgear. However, it still retains a certain charm with its digital-watch-style instruments.

Powertrain and Performance

The Audi A2 is equipped with a 74bhp 1.4-litre TDI engine, known for its clattery noise when cold. It delivers a heady 65.7mpg on the combined cycle and offers impressive mid-range acceleration. The Honda Insight features a novel Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid powertrain, combining a 67bhp 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine with a 13bhp electric motor. It offers exceptional fuel economy, with some owners recording returns in excess of 100mpg.

Fuel Economy

The Honda Insight’s fuel savings are truly remarkable, with editor-at-large Matt Prior achieving 80mpg on a drive. The Audi A2, while still fuel-efficient, falls short in comparison with its day-to-day 60mpg appetite for diesel.

Driving Dynamics

Both the Audi A2 and Honda Insight are lightweight cars that deliver maximum entertainment. The Audi A2 feels more dynamic, with responsive handling and impressive grip. The Honda Insight, with its low center of gravity and gossamer-light construction, responds crisply and keenly to driver inputs.

Verdict

Despite their initial failure in the market, the Audi A2 and Honda Insight remain relevant and ahead of their time. They are a testament to the optimism and risk-taking spirit of car manufacturers in the 1990s. The Audi A2, in particular, could be relaunched tomorrow and still compete with current rivals. Perhaps a combination of the Audi’s design and the Honda’s powertrain could create the perfect eco-warrior for today’s motoring landscape.

Specifications

For detailed specifications of the Audi A2 and Honda Insight, refer to the image below: