1995 Lotus Esprit vs. 1961 Volkswagen 1500
To start off, 1995 Lotus Esprit is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen 1500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen 1500 would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Lotus Esprit (286 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 234 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen 1500. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen 1500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 479 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen 1500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Lotus Esprit | 1961 Volkswagen 1500 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Esprit | 1500 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 286 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1339 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 40 L |
