1966 Lotus Elan vs. 2004 Volvo C70
To start off, 2004 Volvo C70 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,319 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo C70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo C70 (242 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo C70 weights approximately 965 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 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 1966 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volvo C70, 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, 2004 Volvo C70 (339 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 2004 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elan | C70 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1557 cc | 2319 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 339 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 1661 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 68 L |
