1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1973 Volvo 145
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volvo 145. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volvo 145 would be higher. At 1,778 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Volvo 145 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1973 Volvo 145. (102 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1973 Volvo 145. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Volvo 145 weights approximately 270 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Because 1973 Volvo 145 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 1973 Volvo 145. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volvo 145. (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volvo 145.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Lotus Elan | 1973 Volvo 145 | |
Make | Lotus | Volvo |
Model | Elan | 145 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1973 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1778 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 102 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 152 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4660 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2620 mm |