1981 Lotus Esprit vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 23 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 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lotus Esprit (208 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2004 Volvo S40. (170 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2004 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S40 weights approximately 55 kg more than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
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, 2004 Volvo S40, 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, 1981 Lotus Esprit (277 Nm) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volvo S40. (240 Nm). This means 1981 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Lotus Esprit | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Lotus | Volvo |
Model | Esprit | S40 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2172 cc | 1950 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 208 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 277 Nm | 240 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1255 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4530 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 71 L | 60 L |