1966 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 Peugeot 307
To start off, 2005 Peugeot 307 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Peugeot 307 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Peugeot 307 (134 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Peugeot 307 should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Peugeot 307 weights approximately 581 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Lotus Elan 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 1966 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Peugeot 307, 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, 2005 Peugeot 307 (181 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Peugeot 307 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 2005 Peugeot 307 | |
| Make | Lotus | Peugeot |
| Model | Elan | 307 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1557 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 1277 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
