1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 Volvo V70
To start off, 2005 Volvo V70 is newer by 9 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 1,984 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volvo V70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo V70 (178 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V70 should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo V70 weights approximately 594 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan. 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, 2005 Volvo V70 (240 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo V70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan. 2005 Volvo V70 has automatic transmission and 1996 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1996 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Volvo V70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 2005 Volvo V70 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elan | V70 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1614 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2870 mm |
