1971 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Volvo C30
To start off, 2012 Volvo C30 is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo C30 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo C30 weights approximately 586 kg more than 1971 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volvo C30 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Lotus Elan | 2012 Volvo C30 | |
Make | Lotus | Volvo |
Model | Elan | C30 |
Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 126 HP | 227 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1456 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4252 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1783 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1448 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 60 L |