1991 Lotus Esprit vs. 2005 Volvo S80
To start off, 2005 Volvo S80 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S80 (178 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Esprit. (172 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S80 weights approximately 396 kg more than 1991 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 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 1991 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volvo S80 (241 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Esprit | 2005 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Esprit | S80 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1571 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 80 L |
