1985 Lotus Esprit vs. 2010 Volvo S40
To start off, 2010 Volvo S40 is newer by 25 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 2,400 cc (5 cylinders), 2010 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volvo S40 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1985 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1985 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volvo S40 weights approximately 401 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, 2010 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, 2010 Volvo S40 (230 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Lotus Esprit. (217 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2010 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Lotus Esprit | 2010 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Esprit | S40 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1068 kg | 1469 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4475 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1453 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 60 L |
