1992 Lotus Elan vs. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,897 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta.
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, 1992 Lotus Elan (204 Nm) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (165 Nm). This means 1992 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Lotus Elan | 1996 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elan | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2480 mm |
