2006 Lotus Elise vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Lotus Elise is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 1,950 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lotus Elise (190 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2004 Volvo S40. (170 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 2004 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S40 weights approximately 305 kg more than 2006 Lotus Elise.
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, 2004 Volvo S40, 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 Volvo S40 (240 Nm) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Lotus Elise. (180 Nm). This means 2004 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Lotus Elise | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elise | S40 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1950 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.8 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 60 L |
