1962 Lotus Elite vs. 1998 Opel Meriva
To start off, 1998 Opel Meriva is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Meriva (99 HP) has 16 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Meriva weights approximately 720 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 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 1962 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Opel Meriva (185 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elite | 1998 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elite | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 99 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 53 L |
