1999 Lotus GT 1 vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Lotus GT 1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Lotus GT 1 would be higher. At 3,504 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Lotus GT 1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus GT 1 (573 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 460 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus GT 1 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 350 kg more than 1999 Lotus GT 1.
Because 1999 Lotus GT 1 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 GT 1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1999 Lotus GT 1 (390 Nm @ 6500 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1999 Lotus GT 1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Lotus GT 1 | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | GT 1 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3504 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 573 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2080 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2510 mm |
