1974 Lotus Elite vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 1981 Volvo 343 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 343 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Elite (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (117 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 343.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1974 Lotus Elite (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Lotus Elite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lotus Elite | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elite | 343 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 117 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.3 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1400 mm |
