1962 Lotus Elite vs. 1985 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1985 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,272 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Volkswagen Polo (116 HP) has 33 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 60 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 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 1962 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 1985 Volkswagen Polo (145 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1985 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elite | 1985 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elite | Polo |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 116 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2340 mm |
