1994 Lotus Elan vs. 2009 Volvo S80
To start off, 2009 Volvo S80 is newer by 15 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 4,414 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S80 (311 HP @ 5950 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1994 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1994 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo S80 weights approximately 722 kg more than 1994 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Volvo S80 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, 2009 Volvo S80 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, 2009 Volvo S80 (440 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Lotus Elan. 2009 Volvo S80 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. 2009 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Lotus Elan | 2009 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elan | S80 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 4414 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5950 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3950 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 Weight | 1020 kg | 1742 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2840 mm |
