1966 Lotus Elan vs. 2007 Volvo C30
To start off, 2007 Volvo C30 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 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo C30 (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo C30 weights approximately 783 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, 2007 Volvo C30, 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 Volvo C30 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Elan. 2007 Volvo C30 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 Volvo C30 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 2007 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elan | C30 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1557 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 17.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 1479 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
