1960 Lotus Elite vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,593 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1960 Lotus Elite. (71 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1960 Lotus Elite.
Because 1960 Lotus Elite 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 1960 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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. Let's talk about torque, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Lotus Elite. (104 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1996 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1960 Lotus Elite | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elite | Passat |
| Year Released | 1960 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1216 cc | 1593 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2710 mm |
