1962 Lotus Elite vs. 2001 Opel Signum
To start off, 2001 Opel Signum is newer by 39 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Signum (123 HP) has 40 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Signum weights approximately 820 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, 2001 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, 2001 Opel Signum (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2001 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 | 2001 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elite | Signum |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 123 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| 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 | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 60 L |
