1986 Lotus Esprit vs. 1999 Volvo S80
To start off, 1999 Volvo S80 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,922 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volvo S80 (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1986 Lotus Esprit. (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1986 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volvo S80 weights approximately 603 kg more than 1986 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volvo S80, 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, 1999 Volvo S80 (281 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5250 RPM). This means 1999 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Lotus Esprit | 1999 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Esprit | S80 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 2922 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 4200 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 | 1067 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 80 L |
