1968 Lotus Elan vs. 2013 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Passat (276 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 743 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 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 1968 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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. 2013 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1968 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1968 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1968 Lotus Elan | 2013 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elan | Passat |
Year Released | 1968 | 2013 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 3600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 276 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1563 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4868 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1835 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1487 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2803 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 70 L |