1989 Lotus Elan vs. 2002 Volvo V70
To start off, 2002 Volvo V70 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Volvo V70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volvo V70 (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Elan. (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volvo V70 should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volvo V70 weights approximately 672 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Volvo V70 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Volvo V70 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, 2002 Volvo V70 (280 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2002 Volvo V70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lotus Elan | 2002 Volvo V70 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elan | V70 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1692 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 66 L |
