1962 Lotus Elan vs. 2001 Opel Astra
To start off, 2001 Opel Astra is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,171 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Astra (152 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Astra weights approximately 800 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 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 1962 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Opel 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, 2001 Opel Astra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elan. (138 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1962 Lotus Elan | 2001 Opel Astra | |
Make | Lotus | Opel |
Model | Elan | Astra |
Year Released | 1962 | 2001 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1496 cc | 2171 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 152 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 138 Nm | 203 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.7 mm | 94.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.6:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 590 kg | 1390 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4280 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2620 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 53 L |