1960 Lotus Elite vs. 1990 Volvo 480
To start off, 1990 Volvo 480 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Volvo 480 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Volvo 480 (108 HP) has 37 more horse power than 1960 Lotus Elite. (71 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Volvo 480 should accelerate faster than 1960 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Volvo 480 weights approximately 418 kg more than 1960 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1960 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 1960 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Volvo 480, 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, 1990 Volvo 480 (143 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Lotus Elite. (104 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1990 Volvo 480 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1960 Lotus Elite | 1990 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elite | 480 |
| Year Released | 1960 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1216 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 582 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 80 L |
