1962 Lotus Elite vs. 1993 Volvo 850
To start off, 1993 Volvo 850 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 2,319 cc (5 cylinders), 1993 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Volvo 850 (225 HP) has 142 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Volvo 850 weights approximately 790 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 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 1962 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 Volvo 850, 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, 1993 Volvo 850 (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1993 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elite | 1993 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elite | 850 |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 2319 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 225 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 73 L |
