2007 Lotus Elise vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Lotus Elise is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2007 Lotus Elise. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 2007 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 494 kg more than 2007 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Lotus Elise. (168 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Lotus Elise | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elise | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 1279 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.4 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 32 L | 55 L |
