1962 Lotus Elite vs. 1999 Volkswagen Lupo

To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Lupo 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Lupo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Lotus Elite (83 HP) has 24 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Lupo. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1962 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Lupo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Lupo weights approximately 320 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elite.

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 Lupo, 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 Lupo (115 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Lupo 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 Lupo
Make Lotus Volkswagen
Model Elite Lupo
Year Released 1962 1999
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1215 cc 1781 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 83 HP 59 HP
Torque 102 Nm 115 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 2200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 76.2 mm 79.6 mm
Engine Stroke Size 66.7 mm 86.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 19.0:1
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 980 kg
Vehicle Length 3710 mm 3530 mm
Vehicle Width 1510 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1190 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2240 mm 2330 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 29 L 34 L