1994 Lotus Elan vs. 1955 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1994 Lotus Elan is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Lotus Elan weights approximately 280 kg more than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Volkswagen Beetle is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 Lotus Elan, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1994 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1994 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1994 Lotus Elan | 1955 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elan | Beetle |
Year Released | 1994 | 1955 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1192 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 38 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 89 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 740 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1560 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2410 mm |