1963 Lotus Elan vs. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 50 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1963 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1963 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 787 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, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Lotus Elan. (138 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1963 Lotus Elan | 2013 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elan | Jetta |
Year Released | 1963 | 2013 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 138 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.7 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 594 kg | 1381 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4628 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1778 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1453 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2651 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |