1974 Lotus Eclat vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 32 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1974 Lotus Eclat. (160 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1974 Lotus Eclat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 230 kg more than 1974 Lotus Eclat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Eclat. (190 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Eclat. 1974 Lotus Eclat has automatic transmission and 2006 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2006 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Lotus Eclat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lotus Eclat | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Eclat | Golf |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.3 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1106 kg | 1336 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
