1966 Lotus Elan vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 702 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 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 1966 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra, 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, 2009 Opel Astra (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Elan. 2009 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1966 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1966 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elan | Astra |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1557 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 191 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 52 L |
