1964 Lotus Elan vs. 2011 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2011 Volvo XC90 is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,400 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo XC90 (200 HP) has 100 more horse power than 1964 Lotus Elan. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1964 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 1565 kg more than 1964 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1964 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volvo XC90 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Volvo XC90 (420 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 282 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Lotus Elan. (138 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Lotus Elan | 2011 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elan | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1964 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 590 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4808 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1897 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1783 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |
