1962 Lotus Elite vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 46 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 1,421 cc (3 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Lotus Elite (83 HP) has 9 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1962 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 505 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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Polo (195 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elite | Polo |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 1421 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 170 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 | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 45 L |
