1980 Lotus Esprit vs. 1959 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1980 Lotus Esprit is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Lotus Esprit (208 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. (34 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 406 kg more than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Lotus Esprit 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 1980 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 Volkswagen 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.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Lotus Esprit | 1959 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Esprit | Beetle |
Year Released | 1980 | 1959 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2172 cc | 1192 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 208 HP | 34 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1206 kg | 800 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |