1962 Lotus Elite vs. 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP) has 87 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 804 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 Jetta, 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 Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Jetta 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 Jetta | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elite | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 170 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 55 L |
