1962 Lotus Elan vs. 1989 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1989 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,496 cc (4 cylinders), 1962 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Lotus Elan (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1962 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 250 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elan.
Because 1962 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 1962 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 1962 Lotus Elan (138 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (76 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1962 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
1962 Lotus Elan | 1989 Volkswagen Polo | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elan | Polo |
Year Released | 1962 | 1989 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1496 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 44 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4900 RPM |
Torque | 138 Nm | 76 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 590 kg | 840 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 3660 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1590 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2340 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |