1966 Lotus Seven vs. 2009 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Passat (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 1031 kg more than 1966 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 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 1966 Lotus Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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. 2009 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1966 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1966 Lotus Seven will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Seven | 2009 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Seven | Passat |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 432 kg | 1463 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 70 L |
