1962 Lotus Elan vs. 2003 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 41 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 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Meriva (118 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 890 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, 2003 Opel Meriva, 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, 2003 Opel Meriva (225 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elan. (138 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1962 Lotus Elan | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
Make | Lotus | Opel |
Model | Elan | Meriva |
Year Released | 1962 | 2003 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1496 cc | 1795 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 118 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 138 Nm | 225 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.7 mm | 88.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 590 kg | 1480 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4050 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1630 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2620 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 53 L |