1957 Lotus Seven vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (168 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1957 Lotus Seven. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1957 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 750 kg more than 1957 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 Lotus Seven 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 1957 Lotus Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40, 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Lotus Seven. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Lotus Seven. 2003 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1957 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1957 Lotus Seven will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Lotus Seven | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Seven | S40 |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 161 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3370 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 950 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2190 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 62 L |
