1991 Lotus Esprit vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,770 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (190 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Esprit. (172 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 415 kg more than 1991 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 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 1991 Lotus Esprit. 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 (279 Nm) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Esprit | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Esprit | Passat |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2770 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 279 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 62 L |
