1960 Lotus Elite vs. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 44 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1960 Lotus Elite. (71 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1960 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 882 kg more than 1960 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (235 Nm) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Lotus Elite. (104 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1960 Lotus Elite | 2004 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elite | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1960 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1216 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 582 kg | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 55 L |
