2005 Lotus Exige vs. 1993 Volvo 850
To start off, 2005 Lotus Exige is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (5 cylinders), 1993 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Exige (243 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1993 Volvo 850. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1993 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Volvo 850 weights approximately 490 kg more than 2005 Lotus Exige.
Because 2005 Lotus Exige 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 Exige. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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, 2005 Lotus Exige (236 Nm @ 7000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Volvo 850. (176 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2005 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lotus Exige | 1993 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Exige | 850 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 243 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 7000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2670 mm |
