1998 Lotus Elise vs. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 1,981 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lotus Elise (187 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 584 kg more than 1998 Lotus Elise.
Because 1998 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 1998 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 Elise (193 Nm) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. (165 Nm). This means 1998 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Lotus Elise | 2004 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elise | Jetta |
Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1981 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 187 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 193 Nm | 165 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 714 kg | 1298 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3740 mm | 4380 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2520 mm |