1962 Lotus Elite vs. 2010 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 48 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP) has 117 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 716 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, 2010 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2010 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elite | 2010 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elite | GTI |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| 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 | 1376 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4211 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 55 L |
