2009 Lotus Elise vs. 1991 Volvo 850
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 2,434 cc (5 cylinders), 1991 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1991 Volvo 850. (168 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1991 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Volvo 850 weights approximately 420 kg more than 2009 Lotus Elise.
Because 2009 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 2009 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1991 Volvo 850 (230 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Lotus Elise. (181 Nm @ 6800 RPM). This means 1991 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lotus Elise | 1991 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elise | 850 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2434 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 90 mm |
| 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 | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 58 L |
