1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. Both 1996 Lotus Elan and 1980 Volkswagen Passat are equipped with a 1,588 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 100 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (126 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elan | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2480 mm |
