2009 Lotus Exige vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 2009 Lotus Exige is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo S70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo S70 would be higher. At 2,434 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volvo S70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Exige (240 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1997 Volvo S70. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo S70.
Because 2009 Lotus Exige 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 Exige. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70, 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, 2009 Lotus Exige (231 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo S70. (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo S70.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lotus Exige | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Exige | S70 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| 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 | 240 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3750 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 Length | 3790 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 68 L |
