2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo vs. 1966 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo is newer by 40 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 5,326 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo (303 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo weights approximately 844 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, 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 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, 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo (438 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 291 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo | 1966 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Monte Carlo | Elan |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5326 cc | 1557 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 303 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 438 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 696 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 45 L |
