2008 Lotus Elise vs. 1973 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Lotus Elise is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (108 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 29 kg more than 2008 Lotus Elise.
Because 2008 Lotus Elise 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 2008 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 2008 Lotus Elise (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Lotus Elise | 1973 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elise | Passat |
Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 80 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 881 kg | 910 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2480 mm |