2002 Lotus Elise vs. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2002 Lotus Elise is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit weights approximately 55 kg more than 2002 Lotus Elise.
Because 2002 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 2002 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 2002 Lotus Elise (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (111 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2002 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2002 Lotus Elise has manual transmission. 2002 Lotus Elise will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Lotus Elise | 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elise | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2002 | 1976 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 111 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 80 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 805 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2410 mm |