1971 Lotus Seven vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Seven. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 969 kg more than 1971 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Lotus Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (349 Nm) has 257 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Seven. (92 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Seven. 2012 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1971 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1971 Lotus Seven will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Lotus Seven | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Seven | Passat |
Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1340 cc | 3600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 280 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 92 Nm | 349 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 594 kg | 1563 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 4769 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2712 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 70 L |