1966 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Opel Insignia
To start off, 2012 Opel Insignia is newer by 46 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Opel Insignia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Insignia (321 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 206 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Insignia should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Because 2012 Opel Insignia is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1966 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Opel Insignia will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Opel Insignia (435 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 288 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Insignia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 2012 Opel Insignia | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elan | Insignia |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1557 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 321 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 435 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1856 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1498 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2737 mm |
