1998 Lotus Elise vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 8 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 2,501 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lotus Elise (187 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (150 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 604 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, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lotus Elise. (193 Nm @ 5600 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lotus Elise | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elise | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2501 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 714 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3740 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2510 mm |
