1989 Lotus Esprit vs. 1954 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1989 Lotus Esprit is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Esprit (216 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. (34 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 348 kg more than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1954 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:
| 1989 Lotus Esprit | 1954 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Esprit | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1954 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1148 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2410 mm |
