1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2004 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2004 Opel Vectra is newer by 35 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 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Vectra (145 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Vectra weights approximately 755 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, 2004 Opel Vectra, 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, 2004 Opel Vectra (220 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan. 2004 Opel Vectra 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. 2004 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 2004 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elan | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 61 L |
