1968 Lotus Elan vs. 2001 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2001 Opel Meriva is newer by 33 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 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Meriva (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Meriva weights approximately 543 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 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 1968 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Opel Meriva, 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 Meriva (165 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1968 Lotus Elan | 2001 Opel Meriva | |
Make | Lotus | Opel |
Model | Elan | Meriva |
Year Released | 1968 | 2001 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1794 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 116 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1393 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4050 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1630 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2610 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 53 L |