1999 Lotus Elise vs. 1984 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1999 Lotus Elise is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus Elise (118 HP) has 65 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 167 kg more than 1999 Lotus Elise.
Because 1999 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 1999 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 1999 Lotus Elise (165 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1999 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Lotus Elise | 1984 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elise | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.4 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 708 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2480 mm |
