2008 Lotus Elise vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Lotus Elise is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 304 kg more than 2008 Lotus Elise.
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, 1981 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, 2008 Lotus Elise (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Lotus Elise | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elise | Golf |
Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 86.4 mm |
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 | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 881 kg | 1185 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3820 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2480 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 32 L | 55 L |