1966 Lotus Elan vs. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 45 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 768 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, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1966 Lotus Elan | 2011 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elan | Jetta |
Year Released | 1966 | 2011 |
Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1557 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 147 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 1464 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4557 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1781 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1504 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |