1981 Lotus Esprit vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lotus Esprit (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1981 Lotus Esprit 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 1981 Lotus Esprit. 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, 1981 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1981 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Lotus Esprit | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Esprit | Passat |
Year Released | 1981 | 1996 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1593 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 221 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2710 mm |