1959 Lotus Seven vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Volkswagen Passat (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 475 kg more than 1959 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Lotus Seven 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 1959 Lotus Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Passat, 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.
Compare all specifications:
1959 Lotus Seven | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Seven | Passat |
Year Released | 1959 | 1980 |
Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1171 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 38 HP | 85 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 920 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2480 mm |