1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (89 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 294 kg more than 1996 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elan | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2578 mm |
