1968 Lotus Elan vs. 1991 Opel Calibra
To start off, 1991 Opel Calibra is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Opel Calibra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lotus Elan (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1991 Opel Calibra. (115 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1991 Opel Calibra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Opel Calibra weights approximately 340 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan.
Because 1991 Opel Calibra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1968 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Opel Calibra 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, 1991 Opel Calibra (174 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1991 Opel Calibra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Lotus Elan | 1991 Opel Calibra | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elan | Calibra |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 75 L |
