1966 Lotus Elan vs. 1997 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 31 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, 1966 Lotus Elan (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 324 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, 1997 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 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. (117 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1966 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
1966 Lotus Elan | 1997 Volkswagen Polo | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elan | Polo |
Year Released | 1966 | 1997 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1557 cc | 1390 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
Torque | 147 Nm | 117 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4150 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1650 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2410 mm |