1996 Lotus Esprit vs. 1974 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 Lotus Esprit is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Esprit (285 HP) has 226 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1996 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 1996 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1996 Lotus Esprit (510 Nm) has 416 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (94 Nm). This means 1996 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Esprit | 1974 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Esprit | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1271 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 285 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2480 mm |
