1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2009 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 18 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 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP) has 40 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 1310 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, 2009 Volkswagen GTI (281 Nm) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2009 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2009 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elan | GTI |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 95.5 mm |
| 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 | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2580 mm |
