1969 Lotus Elan vs. 1973 Volkswagen SP2
To start off, 1973 Volkswagen SP2 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,679 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Volkswagen SP2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Lotus Elan (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen SP2. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen SP2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Volkswagen SP2 weights approximately 1 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Let's talk about torque, 1969 Lotus Elan (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen SP2. (120 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1969 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen SP2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 1973 Volkswagen SP2 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elan | SP2 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1679 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 889 kg | 890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2410 mm |
