1959 Lotus Elite vs. 1987 Holden Astra
To start off, 1987 Holden Astra is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,488 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Lotus Elite (71 HP) has 1 more horse power than 1987 Holden Astra. (70 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1959 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1987 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Holden Astra weights approximately 275 kg more than 1959 Lotus Elite.
Because 1959 Lotus Elite 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 1959 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Holden Astra, 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, 1987 Holden Astra (115 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Lotus Elite. (104 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1987 Holden Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Lotus Elite. 1987 Holden Astra has automatic transmission and 1959 Lotus Elite has manual transmission. 1959 Lotus Elite will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1987 Holden Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Lotus Elite | 1987 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Lotus | Holden |
| Model | Elite | Astra |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1216 cc | 1488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 70 HP |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2420 mm |
