1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2003 Volvo V50. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 678 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
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 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo V50. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo V50.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elan | V50 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1698 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2650 mm |
