1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2008 Volvo XC70
To start off, 2008 Volvo XC70 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo XC70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo XC70 (208 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo XC70 should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo XC70 weights approximately 610 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volvo XC70 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo XC70 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, 2008 Volvo XC70 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo XC70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2008 Volvo XC70 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elan | XC70 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2770 mm |
