1966 Lotus Elan vs. 1985 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1985 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 19 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 1,557 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Volkswagen Polo (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 24 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1985 Volkswagen Polo, 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 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. (145 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1966 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
1966 Lotus Elan | 1985 Volkswagen Polo | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elan | Polo |
Year Released | 1966 | 1985 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1557 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 116 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 147 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 720 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 3660 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1590 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2340 mm |