1994 Lotus Elan vs. 1989 Volvo 244
To start off, 1994 Lotus Elan is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 244. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 244 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Volvo 244 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 244. (96 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 244. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Volvo 244 weights approximately 276 kg more than 1994 Lotus Elan.
Because 1989 Volvo 244 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1989 Volvo 244. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 Lotus Elan, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1994 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 244. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1994 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 244.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Lotus Elan | 1989 Volvo 244 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elan | 244 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2660 mm |
