1992 Lotus Elan vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,327 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 418 kg more than 1992 Lotus Elan.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Lotus Elan. 2003 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1992 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1992 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Lotus Elan | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elan | S40 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2327 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2670 mm |
