1963 Lotus Elan vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (113 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1963 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1963 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 511 kg more than 1963 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 Lotus Elan 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 1963 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Lotus Elan. (138 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1963 Lotus Elan | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elan | Golf |
Year Released | 1963 | 2003 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 138 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 594 kg | 1105 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4148 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1735 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2512 mm |