1969 Lotus Elan vs. 1999 Opel Signum
To start off, 1999 Opel Signum is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Opel Signum (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Signum weights approximately 910 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 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 1969 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Opel Signum, 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, 1999 Opel Signum (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan. 1999 Opel Signum has automatic transmission and 1969 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1969 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Opel Signum will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 1999 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elan | Signum |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 237 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 52 L |
