1968 Lotus Elan vs. 2008 Volvo C30
To start off, 2008 Volvo C30 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo C30 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo C30 weights approximately 556 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 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 1968 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volvo C30 (230 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Lotus Elan. 2008 Volvo C30 has automatic transmission and 1968 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1968 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volvo C30 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Lotus Elan | 2008 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Elan | C30 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1406 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 62 L |
