1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 34 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (134 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 588 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, 2003 Volvo V50, 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, 2003 Volvo V50 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan. 2003 Volvo V50 has automatic transmission and 1969 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1969 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1969 Lotus Elan | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
Make | Lotus | Volvo |
Model | Elan | V50 |
Year Released | 1969 | 2003 |
Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2521 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 116 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.3:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1438 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2760 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 62 L |