1962 Lotus Elite vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 44 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Lotus Elite (83 HP) has 9 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1962 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 555 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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (140 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elite | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elite | Golf |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 163 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 | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 55 L |
