1962 Lotus Elite vs. 2013 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 51 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), 2013 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (138 HP) has 55 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 698 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, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elite | Golf |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2013 |
| 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 | 138 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 16.5:1 |
| 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 | 1358 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 55 L |
