1968 Lotus Europa vs. 2007 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Opel Astra is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Europa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Europa would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Opel Astra (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Europa. (76 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Europa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Opel Astra weights approximately 775 kg more than 1968 Lotus Europa. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Lotus Europa 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 Europa. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Opel Astra (251 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Lotus Europa. (103 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Lotus Europa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Lotus Europa | 2007 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Europa | Astra |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1470 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1080 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 52 L |
