2008 Lotus Elise vs. 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Lotus Elise is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 189 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, 1994 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, 2008 Lotus Elise (180 Nm) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 2008 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Lotus Elise | 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elise | New Beetle |
Year Released | 2008 | 1994 |
Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 165 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 92.7 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1139 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2520 mm |