1958 Lotus Elite vs. 2008 Volvo V50
To start off, 2008 Volvo V50 is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo V50 (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1958 Lotus Elite. (71 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1958 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo V50 weights approximately 790 kg more than 1958 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Lotus Elite 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 1958 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo V50, 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 Volvo V50 (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Lotus Elite. (105 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Lotus Elite | 2008 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elite | V50 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1216 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 62 L |
