2009 Lotus Elise vs. 1972 Volvo 1800
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volvo 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volvo 1800 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Volvo 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1972 Volvo 1800. (96 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1972 Volvo 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Volvo 1800 weights approximately 308 kg more than 2009 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, 2009 Lotus Elise (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volvo 1800. (153 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volvo 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lotus Elise | 1972 Volvo 1800 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elise | 1800 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 882 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2460 mm |
