1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2010 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 21 more horse power than 2010 Volkswagen Passat. (139 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2010 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 1310 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2010 Volkswagen Passat (320 Nm) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2010 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2010 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elan | Passat |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 139 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2720 mm |
