1985 Lotus Esprit vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (207 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1985 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1985 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 370 kg more than 1985 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50, 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, 2003 Volvo V50 (330 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Lotus Esprit. (217 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Lotus Esprit. 2003 Volvo V50 has automatic transmission and 1985 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1985 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Lotus Esprit | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Esprit | V50 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1068 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 9.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 62 L |
