1990 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1990 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1990 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 360 kg more than 1990 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Lotus Elan. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1990 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1990 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1990 Lotus Elan | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elan | Beetle |
Year Released | 1990 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2537 mm |