2002 Lotus Elise vs. 1994 Volvo 850
To start off, 2002 Lotus Elise is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (5 cylinders), 1994 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Elise (156 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1994 Volvo 850. (124 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1994 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Volvo 850 weights approximately 586 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, 1994 Volvo 850, 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 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2002 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lotus Elise | 1994 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elise | 850 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 806 kg | 1392 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2670 mm |
