1968 Lotus Elan vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 969 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 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 1968 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 1968 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1968 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Lotus Elan | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elan | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 430 kg | 1399 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
