2008 Citroen C3 vs. 1990 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2008 Citroen C3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2008 Citroen C3. (108 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2008 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen C3 weights approximately 139 kg more than 1990 Lotus Elan.
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, 1990 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Citroen C3. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1990 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Citroen C3. 2008 Citroen C3 has automatic transmission and 1990 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1990 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Citroen C3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen C3 | 1990 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | C3 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1586 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1159 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2260 mm |
