1989 Lotus Esprit vs. 2007 Volvo S60
To start off, 2007 Volvo S60 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo S60 (257 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Esprit. (216 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo S60 weights approximately 391 kg more than 1989 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S60, 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, 2007 Volvo S60 (350 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Esprit. (298 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lotus Esprit | 2007 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Esprit | S60 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 257 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1148 kg | 1539 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2720 mm |
