1974 Lotus Elite vs. 2007 Volvo V50
To start off, 2007 Volvo V50 is newer by 33 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 2,519 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo V50 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1974 Lotus Elite. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1974 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo V50 weights approximately 419 kg more than 1974 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Volvo V50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Lotus Elite. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volvo V50 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, 2007 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite. 2007 Volvo V50 has automatic transmission and 1974 Lotus Elite has manual transmission. 1974 Lotus Elite will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lotus Elite | 2007 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elite | V50 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 2519 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.3 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1479 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 62 L |
