1997 Lotus Elise vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lotus Elise (117 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 694 kg more than 1997 Lotus Elise.
Because 1997 Lotus Elise 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 1997 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Lotus Elise. (169 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Lotus Elise. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 1997 Lotus Elise has manual transmission. 1997 Lotus Elise will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Lotus Elise | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elise | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 117 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 169 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.4 mm | 92.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 705 kg | 1399 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4220 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.3 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |