1992 Lotus Elan vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 16 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 1,594 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 155 kg more than 1992 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, 1992 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1992 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Lotus Elan | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elan | Golf |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2590 mm |
