2004 Lotus Elise vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 120 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 540 kg more than 2004 Lotus Elise.
Because 2004 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 2004 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Lotus Elise. (172 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Lotus Elise | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elise | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 55 L |
