1996 Volvo S40 vs. 2011 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2011 Lotus Elise is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lotus Elise (217 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo S40 weights approximately 304 kg more than 2011 Lotus Elise.
Because 2011 Lotus Elise 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 2011 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2011 Lotus Elise (210 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (177 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2011 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo S40 | 2011 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Volvo | Lotus |
| Model | S40 | Elise |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1870 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 926 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1118 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2299 mm |
