1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 22 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (168 HP) has 8 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 384 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, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2013 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elan | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 168 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1381 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1453 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2651 mm |
