1968 Lotus Elan vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 38 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 1,589 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lotus Elan (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 415 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan.
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, 2006 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, 2006 Opel Astra (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Lotus Elan | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elan | Astra |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 79.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 52 L |
