1960 Lotus Elite vs. 1991 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1991 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 518 kg more than 1960 Lotus Elite.
Because 1960 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 1960 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1991 Volkswagen Golf (152 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Lotus Elite. (104 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1991 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1960 Lotus Elite | 1991 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elite | Golf |
| Year Released | 1960 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1216 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 582 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 55 L |
