1966 Lotus Elan vs. 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,713 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Lotus Elan (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit weights approximately 149 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Because 1966 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 1966 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 1966 Lotus Elan (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1966 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elan | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1557 cc | 1713 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2410 mm |
