1961 Lotus Elite vs. 1978 Opel Manta
To start off, 1978 Opel Manta is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,979 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Opel Manta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Opel Manta (100 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1961 Lotus Elite. (83 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Opel Manta should accelerate faster than 1961 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Opel Manta weights approximately 470 kg more than 1961 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Lotus Elite | 1978 Opel Manta | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elite | Manta |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1216 cc | 1979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 50 L |
