2009 Lotus Elise vs. 1999 Volvo S80
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volvo S80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volvo S80 would be higher. At 2,783 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volvo S80 (268 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2009 Lotus Elise. (218 HP @ 8000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 2009 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volvo S80 weights approximately 745 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, 1999 Volvo S80, 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, 1999 Volvo S80 (388 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Lotus Elise. (212 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1999 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lotus Elise | 1999 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elise | S80 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2783 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 212 Nm | 388 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | 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 | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 80 L |
