1989 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 230 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2005 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Lotus Elan | 2005 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elan | Golf |
Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1983 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 165 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 201 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 19.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1250 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2590 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |