2004 Lotus Esprit vs. 1997 Volvo C70
To start off, 2004 Lotus Esprit is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo C70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo C70 would be higher. At 3,507 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Lotus Esprit (350 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1997 Volvo C70. (190 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo C70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo C70 weights approximately 190 kg more than 2004 Lotus Esprit.
Because 2004 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 2004 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volvo C70, 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, 2004 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo C70. (270 Nm). This means 2004 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo C70.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Lotus Esprit | 1997 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Esprit | C70 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3507 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 68 L |
