1958 Lotus Elite vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 54 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (104 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1958 Lotus Elite. (71 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1958 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 870 kg more than 1958 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Lotus Elite 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 1958 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf, 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 Volkswagen Golf (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Lotus Elite. (105 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Lotus Elite | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elite | Golf |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1216 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4534 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 55 L |
