1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2009 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 40 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 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (129 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 547 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, 2009 Volkswagen T5, 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, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1969 Lotus Elan | 2009 Volkswagen T5 | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elan | T5 |
Year Released | 1969 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2459 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 129 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Torque | 147 Nm | 340 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 95.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 168 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 8 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1247 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 5300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1970 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1910 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 3410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |