1963 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Volvo S80
To start off, 2012 Volvo S80 is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo S80 weights approximately 1015 kg more than 1963 Lotus Elan.
Because 1963 Lotus Elan 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 1963 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Volvo S80 (240 Nm) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Lotus Elan. (138 Nm). This means 2012 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Lotus Elan. 2012 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1963 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1963 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Lotus Elan | 2012 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elan | S80 |
| Year Released | 1963 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 594 kg | 1609 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1864 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 67 L |
