1980 Lotus Esprit vs. 2005 Volvo S60
To start off, 2005 Volvo S60 is newer by 25 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 2,318 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S60 (247 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (210 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1980 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S60 weights approximately 318 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 1980 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 1980 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S60, 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, 2005 Volvo S60 (330 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (271 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lotus Esprit | 2005 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Esprit | S60 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2318 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6 seconds | 6.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1219 kg | 1537 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2760 mm |
