1974 Lotus Elite vs. 2005 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 31 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 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Lotus Elite is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Elite (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 125 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, 2005 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 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 Lotus Elite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. 2005 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1974 Lotus Elite has manual transmission. 1974 Lotus Elite will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lotus Elite | 2005 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elite | Golf |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
