1969 Lotus Elan vs. 1992 Volvo 480
To start off, 1992 Volvo 480 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,720 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Volvo 480 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Volvo 480 (109 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Volvo 480 should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Volvo 480 weights approximately 300 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 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 1969 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Volvo 480, 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, 1969 Lotus Elan (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Volvo 480. (143 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1969 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
1969 Lotus Elan | 1992 Volvo 480 | |
Make | Lotus | Volvo |
Model | Elan | 480 |
Year Released | 1969 | 1992 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1720 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 109 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 147 Nm | 143 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 83.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1000 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2510 mm |