1962 Lotus Elite vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 45 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), 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP) has 65 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 606 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
1962 Lotus Elite | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elite | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1962 | 2007 |
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 | 148 HP |
Torque | 102 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1266 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 55 L |