2008 Lotus Exige vs. 1978 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Lotus Exige is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Lotus Exige is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lotus Exige (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lotus Exige weights approximately 231 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Lotus Exige 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 Exige. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Polo, 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 Exige (180 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Lotus Exige | 1978 Volkswagen Polo | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Exige | Polo |
Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1093 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 49 HP |
Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 77 Nm |
Torque RPM | 6800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 69.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 916 kg | 685 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 3510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1570 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2340 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 35 L |