2009 Lotus Elise vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 2,461 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo 850 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2009 Lotus Elise. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 2009 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 611 kg more than 2009 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1996 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, 1996 Volvo 850 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Lotus Elise. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 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 | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elise | 850 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 882 kg | 1493 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2670 mm |
