1971 Lotus Elan vs. 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Lotus Elan (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet.
Because 1971 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 1971 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet, 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, 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet (165 Nm) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Lotus Elan | 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elan | Cabriolet |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 157 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2480 mm |
