1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 13 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), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 343 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (235 Nm) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elan | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2004 |
| 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 | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1363 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2470 mm |
