1966 Lotus Elan vs. 2006 Volvo S60
To start off, 2006 Volvo S60 is newer by 40 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S60 (168 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S60 weights approximately 805 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, 2006 Volvo S60, 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, 2006 Volvo S60 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 2006 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elan | S60 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1557 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 1501 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
