1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. Both 1991 Lotus Elan and 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit are equipped with a 1,588 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 90 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Lotus Elan weights approximately 192 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. 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, 1991 Lotus Elan (143 Nm) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (111 Nm). This means 1991 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 1991 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1991 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1991 Lotus Elan | 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elan | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1991 | 1977 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 70 HP |
Torque | 143 Nm | 111 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 80 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 805 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2410 mm |