1971 Lotus Elan vs. 1985 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1985 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Lotus Elan (126 HP) has 67 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 70 kg more than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Because 1971 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 1971 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 1971 Lotus Elan (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1971 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Lotus Elan | 1985 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elan | Passat |
Year Released | 1971 | 1985 |
Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1295 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 126 HP | 59 HP |
Torque | 153 Nm | 100 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 73.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 940 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2560 mm |