2002 Lotus Elise vs. 1989 Volvo 440
To start off, 2002 Lotus Elise is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 440. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 440 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Elise (156 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 440. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Volvo 440 weights approximately 224 kg more than 2002 Lotus Elise.
Because 2002 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 2002 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 440, 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, 2002 Lotus Elise (180 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 440. (143 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2002 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 440.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lotus Elise | 1989 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elise | 440 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 175 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 | 806 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.9 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 80 L |
