1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle. (149 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 165 kg more than 1991 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, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 New Beetle | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elan | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1991 | 2001 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1786 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 149 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1185 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3010 mm |