1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2007 Volvo C30

To start off, 2007 Volvo C30 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,501 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo C30 (300 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo C30 weights approximately 259 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (400 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan. 2007 Volvo C30 has automatic transmission and 1996 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1996 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:

1996 Lotus Elan 2007 Volvo C30
Make Lotus Volvo
Model Elan C30
Year Released 1996 2007
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1588 cc 2501 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 163 HP 300 HP
Engine RPM 6600 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 204 Nm 400 Nm
Torque RPM 4200 RPM 1950 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1020 kg 1279 kg
Vehicle Length 3810 mm 4250 mm
Vehicle Width 1740 mm 1770 mm


 

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