1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2013 Volvo S80
To start off, 2013 Volvo S80 is newer by 17 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 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volvo S80 (237 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volvo S80 weights approximately 680 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, 2013 Volvo S80 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2013 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 2013 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elan | S80 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 6 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4851 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1861 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1493 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2835 mm |
