1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 235 kg more than 1991 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, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elan | Golf |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2520 mm |
