1994 Lotus Esprit vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Lotus Esprit (264 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40.
Because 1994 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 1994 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1994 Lotus Esprit (480 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1994 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Lotus Esprit | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Esprit | S40 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 264 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 55 L |
