1959 Lotus Seven vs. 1985 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1985 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 26 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Volkswagen Passat (89 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (36 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 600 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, 1985 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 | 1985 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Seven | Passat |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 947 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 440 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2560 mm |
