1962 Lotus Elite vs. 1977 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1977 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,272 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Lotus Elite (83 HP) has 24 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1962 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 220 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Because 1962 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 1962 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 1962 Lotus Elite (102 Nm) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm). This means 1962 Lotus Elite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elite | 1977 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elite | Passat |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 72 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2480 mm |
