1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2001 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Polo 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 86 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Lotus Elan weights approximately 37 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Polo. 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 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Polo. (129 Nm). This means 1991 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2001 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elan | Polo |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2520 mm |
