1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 21 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 20 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (140 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 527 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (320 Nm) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 2012 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1991 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1991 Lotus Elan 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:
1991 Lotus Elan | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elan | Passat |
Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 140 HP |
Torque | 143 Nm | 320 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1524 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4769 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2712 mm |