1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 41 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 764 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, 2010 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, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 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 | 2010 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elan | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
