1962 Lotus Elan vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 46 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 26 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1962 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 499 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, 2008 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 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (122 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1962 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
1962 Lotus Elan | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elan | Polo |
Year Released | 1962 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1496 cc | 1390 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 138 Nm | 122 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 590 kg | 1089 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 3920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2470 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |