1959 Lotus Elite vs. 2011 Volvo S80
To start off, 2011 Volvo S80 is newer by 52 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo S80 (180 HP) has 109 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Elite. (71 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo S80 weights approximately 1029 kg more than 1959 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 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 1959 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volvo S80, 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. 2011 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1959 Lotus Elite has manual transmission. 1959 Lotus Elite will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Lotus Elite | 2011 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elite | S80 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1216 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 180 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1609 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1864 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 67 L |
