1971 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 34 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 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 695 kg more than 1971 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (335 Nm) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Lotus Elan | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elan | Passat |
Year Released | 1971 | 2005 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1895 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 126 HP | 128 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 335 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 96 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 18.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1565 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 62 L |