1962 Lotus Elite vs. 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 37 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 2,801 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Jetta (148 HP) has 65 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 671 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, 1999 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, 1999 Volkswagen Jetta (279 Nm) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm). This means 1999 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elite | 1999 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elite | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 2801 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 279 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 70 L |
