2006 Lotus Elise vs. 1972 Volkswagen SP2
To start off, 2006 Lotus Elise is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volkswagen SP2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volkswagen SP2 would be higher. At 1,803 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lotus Elise (190 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Volkswagen SP2 weights approximately 4 kg more than 2006 Lotus Elise.
Let's talk about torque, 2006 Lotus Elise (187 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. (130 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2006 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volkswagen SP2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Lotus Elise | 1972 Volkswagen SP2 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elise | SP2 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1803 cc | 1677 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 896 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2410 mm |
