1966 Lotus Elan vs. 1999 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Lotus Elan (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Passat. (100 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 579 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Because 1966 Lotus Elan 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 1966 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1966 Lotus Elan (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Passat. (141 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1966 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1966 Lotus Elan | 1999 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elan | Passat |
Year Released | 1966 | 1999 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1557 cc | 1595 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 147 Nm | 141 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 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 Weight | 696 kg | 1275 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |