1974 Lotus Elite vs. 1991 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1991 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Elite (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 80 kg more than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Because 1974 Lotus Elite 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 Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1974 Lotus Elite (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. (166 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1974 Lotus Elite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lotus Elite | 1991 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elite | Golf |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1991 |
| 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 | 142 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.3 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2480 mm |
