1964 Lotus Elan vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 100 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 900 kg more than 1964 Lotus Elan.
Because 1964 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 1964 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra, 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 Vectra (205 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Lotus Elan. (138 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Lotus Elan | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elan | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1964 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.7 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 590 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1510 mm |
