1969 Lotus Elan vs. 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 30 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 2,801 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Jetta (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 631 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 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 1969 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Volkswagen Jetta (279 Nm) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm). This means 1999 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1969 Lotus Elan | 1999 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elan | Jetta |
Year Released | 1969 | 1999 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2801 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 147 Nm | 279 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.6:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1331 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4380 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |