1989 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Polo 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Polo. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 287 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 Polo (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Polo 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 Polo | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elan | Polo |
Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 165 HP | 128 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 201 Nm | 310 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 95.5 mm |
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 | 1307 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3900 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 45 L |