1981 Lotus Esprit vs. 1995 Volvo 850
To start off, 1995 Volvo 850 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 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 @ 5400 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (208 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Volvo 850 weights approximately 345 kg more than 1981 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 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 @ 2400 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (277 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1995 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Lotus Esprit | 1995 Volvo 850 | |
Make | Lotus | Volvo |
Model | Esprit | 850 |
Year Released | 1981 | 1995 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2172 cc | 2317 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 208 HP | 251 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 277 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1545 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2670 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 71 L | 73 L |