1974 Lotus Eclat vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lotus Eclat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lotus Eclat would be higher. At 1,971 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Lotus Eclat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Eclat (160 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Eclat should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 340 kg more than 1974 Lotus Eclat.
Because 1974 Lotus Eclat 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 1974 Lotus Eclat. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 1974 Lotus Eclat (190 Nm) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 1974 Lotus Eclat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lotus Eclat | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Eclat | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.3 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
