2002 Lotus Elise vs. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 9 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2002 Lotus Elise. (134 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2002 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 708 kg more than 2002 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Lotus Elise. (175 Nm @ 4850 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Lotus Elise | 2011 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elise | Jetta |
Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 175 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4850 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 756 kg | 1464 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4557 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1781 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1504 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 55 L |