1979 Lotus Esprit vs. 1995 Volvo 850
To start off, 1995 Volvo 850 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,317 cc (5 cylinders), 1995 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Volvo 850 (251 HP) has 91 more horse power than 1979 Lotus Esprit. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1979 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1979 Lotus Esprit is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1979 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Volvo 850, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1995 Volvo 850 (350 Nm) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lotus Esprit. (217 Nm). This means 1995 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Lotus Esprit | 1995 Volvo 850 | |
Make | Lotus | Volvo |
Model | Esprit | 850 |
Year Released | 1979 | 1995 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2317 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 251 HP |
Torque | 217 Nm | 350 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
Top Speed | 218 km/hour | 232 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2670 mm |