2008 Lotus Elise vs. 1976 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2008 Lotus Elise is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lotus Elise weights approximately 130 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Volkswagen 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, 2008 Lotus Elise (180 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lotus Elise | 1976 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elise | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1283 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2410 mm |
