2009 Lotus Elise vs. 1974 Volvo 140
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 140. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 140 would be higher. At 2,127 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volvo 140 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (218 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 140. (123 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 140.
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 (212 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 140. (170 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 140.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lotus Elise | 1974 Volvo 140 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elise | 140 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2127 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 212 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 60 L |
