1980 Lotus Esprit vs. 2004 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2004 Volvo XC90 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,901 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo XC90 (268 HP) has 60 more horse power than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (208 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1980 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 900 kg more than 1980 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volvo XC90 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Volvo XC90 (380 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (277 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lotus Esprit | 2004 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Esprit | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 2901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 268 HP |
| Torque | 277 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1206 kg | 2106 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 72 L |
