1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2007 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 16 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 56 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 398 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, 2007 Volkswagen Golf (251 Nm) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2007 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 | 2007 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elan | Golf |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 104 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 176 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 | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2580 mm |
