1966 Lotus Elan vs. 2008 Volvo XC70
To start off, 2008 Volvo XC70 is newer by 42 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo XC70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo XC70 (207 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo XC70 should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo XC70 weights approximately 1039 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 2008 Volvo XC70 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1966 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo XC70 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, 2008 Volvo XC70 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo XC70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 2008 Volvo XC70 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elan | XC70 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1557 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
