2002 Lotus Elise vs. 1968 Volvo 120
To start off, 2002 Lotus Elise is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Elise (120 HP) has 53 more horse power than 1968 Volvo 120. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1968 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Volvo 120 weights approximately 260 kg more than 2002 Lotus Elise.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 2002 Lotus Elise (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Volvo 120. (144 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2002 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lotus Elise | 1968 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elise | 120 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1777 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2610 mm |
