2002 Lotus Elise vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Lotus Elise is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Elise (156 HP) has 107 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 24 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, 1978 Volkswagen Golf, 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 (180 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (81 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Lotus Elise | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elise | Golf |
Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1471 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 156 HP | 49 HP |
Torque | 180 Nm | 81 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 76.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 80 mm |
Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 138 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 806 kg | 830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 45 L |