1988 Lotus Esprit vs. 1991 Volvo 480
To start off, 1991 Volvo 480 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Lotus Esprit (172 HP) has 64 more horse power than 1991 Volvo 480. (108 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1991 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 176 kg more than 1991 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Volvo 480, 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, 1988 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Volvo 480. (143 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lotus Esprit | 1991 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Esprit | 480 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 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 | 1176 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2510 mm |
