1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster 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 Jetta (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta 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 Jetta | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elan | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1700 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 | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1453 mm |
