1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 21 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 45 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (115 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 403 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (169 Nm) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has automatic transmission and 1991 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1991 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1991 Lotus Elan | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elan | Jetta |
Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 115 HP |
Torque | 143 Nm | 169 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4644 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1778 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1482 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2651 mm |