1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 Volvo V40
To start off, 2005 Volvo V40 is newer by 36 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 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volvo V40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Lotus Elan (118 HP) has 10 more horse power than 2005 Volvo V40. (108 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2005 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo V40 weights approximately 391 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan.
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, 2005 Volvo V40, 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 (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volvo V40. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1969 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volvo V40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 2005 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elan | V40 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 77 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 889 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 70 L |
