2006 Lotus Elise vs. 1993 Volvo 850
To start off, 2006 Lotus Elise is newer by 13 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 2,319 cc (5 cylinders), 1993 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Volvo 850 (225 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2006 Lotus Elise. (189 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 2006 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Volvo 850 weights approximately 664 kg more than 2006 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Lotus Elise. 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, 1993 Volvo 850 (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Lotus Elise. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1993 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Lotus Elise | 1993 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elise | 850 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2319 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 786 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 73 L |
