1959 Lotus Elite vs. 2006 Opel Corsa
To start off, 2006 Opel Corsa is newer by 47 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 1,389 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Corsa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Corsa (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Elite. (71 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Corsa should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Corsa weights approximately 495 kg more than 1959 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 Opel Corsa, 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 Opel Corsa (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Lotus Elite. (104 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Corsa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Lotus Elite | 2006 Opel Corsa | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elite | Corsa |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1216 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 44 L |
