1959 Lotus Seven vs. 1998 Volvo S80
To start off, 1998 Volvo S80 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,983 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S80 (178 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (74 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S80 weights approximately 1161 kg more than 1959 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 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 1959 Lotus Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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. 1998 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1959 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1959 Lotus Seven will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Lotus Seven | 1998 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Seven | S80 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 420 kg | 1581 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2800 mm |
