1962 Lotus Elite vs. 2007 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 45 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 1,966 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Passat (168 HP) has 85 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 872 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2007 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, 2007 Volkswagen Passat (350 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 248 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite. 2007 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1962 Lotus Elite has manual transmission. 1962 Lotus Elite will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elite | 2007 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elite | Passat |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 1966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 168 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 223 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1532 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 70 L |
