1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1993 Volvo 480
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 1,720 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Volvo 480 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1993 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1993 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 20 kg more than 1993 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Volvo 480. (143 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1993 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elan | 480 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1720 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2510 mm |
