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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (198 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 575 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, 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 (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 116 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 | 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 | 198 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 262 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 86 mm |
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 | 1425 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 52 L |