2005 Lotus Elise vs. 1989 Volvo 440
To start off, 2005 Lotus Elise is newer by 16 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), 2005 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 440. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 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 210 kg more than 2005 Lotus Elise.
Because 2005 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 2005 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, 2005 Lotus Elise (186 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 440. (175 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2005 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 440.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lotus Elise | 1989 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elise | 440 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 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 | 189 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 60 L |
