2002 Lotus Elise vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 1557 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, 2009 Volkswagen 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, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Lotus Elise. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Lotus Elise | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elise | Beetle |
Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 2307 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 55 L |