1966 Lotus Elan vs. 2000 Volkswagen Lupo
To start off, 2000 Volkswagen Lupo is newer by 34 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) has 66 more horse power than 2000 Volkswagen Lupo. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2000 Volkswagen Lupo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Volkswagen Lupo weights approximately 274 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, 2000 Volkswagen Lupo, 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 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Volkswagen Lupo. (82 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1966 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Volkswagen Lupo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 2000 Volkswagen Lupo | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elan | Lupo |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1557 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 67.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 70.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| 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 | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 3550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2330 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 34 L |
