1998 Lotus 340 R vs. 1974 Volkswagen K 70
To start off, 1998 Lotus 340 R is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen K 70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen K 70 would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Lotus 340 R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lotus 340 R (190 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen K 70. (75 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lotus 340 R should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen K 70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Volkswagen K 70 weights approximately 375 kg more than 1998 Lotus 340 R.
Because 1998 Lotus 340 R 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 1998 Lotus 340 R. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Volkswagen K 70, 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, 1998 Lotus 340 R (198 Nm) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen K 70. (123 Nm). This means 1998 Lotus 340 R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen K 70.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lotus 340 R | 1974 Volkswagen K 70 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | 340 R | K 70 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 148 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 675 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 45 L |
