1994 Lotus Elan vs. 2007 Volvo S40
To start off, 2007 Volvo S40 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1994 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1994 Lotus Elan.
Because 2007 Volvo S40 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1994 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S40 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 S40 (320 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Lotus Elan. 2007 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1994 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1994 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Lotus Elan | 2007 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elan | S40 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| 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 | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2650 mm |
