1962 Lotus Elite vs. 1999 Opel Signum
To start off, 1999 Opel Signum is newer by 37 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Opel Signum (148 HP) has 65 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Signum weights approximately 426 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, 1999 Opel Signum, 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, 1999 Opel Signum (270 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1999 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elite | 1999 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elite | Signum |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| 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 | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 60 L |
