2009 Lotus Elise vs. 1999 Volkswagen Quantum
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Quantum. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Quantum would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Quantum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Quantum. (110 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Quantum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Quantum weights approximately 248 kg more than 2009 Lotus Elise.
Because 2009 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 2009 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Quantum, 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, 1999 Volkswagen Quantum (173 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Lotus Elise. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Quantum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lotus Elise | 1999 Volkswagen Quantum | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elise | Quantum |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 882 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2560 mm |
