2006 Lotus Elise vs. 2010 Volvo S40
To start off, 2010 Volvo S40 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 2,400 cc (5 cylinders), 2010 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lotus Elise (190 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2010 Volvo S40. (168 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 2010 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volvo S40 weights approximately 519 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, 2010 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, 2010 Volvo S40 (230 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Lotus Elise. (180 Nm @ 6800 RPM). This means 2010 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 | 2010 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elise | S40 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1469 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4475 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1453 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 60 L |
