1974 Lotus Elite vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1974 Lotus Elite. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Because 1974 Lotus Elite 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 1974 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (210 Nm) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lotus Elite | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elite | Passat |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.3 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2710 mm |
