1974 Lotus Elite vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 30 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 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Lotus Elite is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1974 Lotus Elite. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1974 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 458 kg more than 1974 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (225 Nm) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elite | Passat |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1518 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 62 L |
