1966 Lotus Elan vs. 2007 Proton Gen
To start off, 2007 Proton Gen is newer by 41 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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Proton Gen is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Lotus Elan (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2007 Proton Gen. (109 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2007 Proton Gen.
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, 2007 Proton Gen, 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, 2007 Proton Gen (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Proton Gen will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Elan. 2007 Proton Gen has automatic transmission and 1966 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1966 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Proton Gen will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 2007 Proton Gen | |
| Make | Lotus | Proton |
| Model | Elan | Gen |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2007 |
| Engine Size | 1557 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 40 L |
