1962 Lotus Elite vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 50 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), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (140 HP) has 57 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 861 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, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elite | Golf |
Year Released | 1962 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
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 | 140 HP |
Torque | 102 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1521 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4246 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1782 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1423 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 55 L |