2005 Lotus Elise vs. 1989 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Lotus Elise is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Elise (120 HP) has 67 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 45 kg more than 2005 Lotus Elise.
Because 2005 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 2005 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2005 Lotus Elise (174 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Lotus Elise | 1989 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elise | Golf |
Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 53 HP |
Torque | 174 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2340 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.5 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 55 L |