1966 Lotus Elan vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 42 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Lotus Elan (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 588 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1966 Lotus Elan | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elan | Golf |
Year Released | 1966 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1557 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 147 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 82.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 92.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 1284 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |