2002 Lotus Esprit vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2002 Lotus Esprit is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 3,504 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Esprit (350 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 230 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 300 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 480, 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 Esprit (400 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (176 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2002 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lotus Esprit | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Esprit | 480 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3504 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2510 mm |
