1970 Lotus Elan vs. 1971 Volkswagen 1302
To start off, 1971 Volkswagen 1302 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,556 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Lotus Elan (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1971 Volkswagen 1302. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1971 Volkswagen 1302. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Volkswagen 1302 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1970 Lotus Elan.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Lotus Elan | 1971 Volkswagen 1302 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elan | 1302 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1556 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1510 mm |
