1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2007 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 38 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 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan.
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, 2007 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, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 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 | 2007 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elan | Jetta |
Year Released | 1969 | 2007 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2480 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 231 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 82.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 92.7 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4560 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2580 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |