1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2009 Opel Zafira
To start off, 2009 Opel Zafira is newer by 40 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Opel Zafira is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Zafira (238 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Zafira should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan.
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, 2009 Opel Zafira, 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, 2009 Opel Zafira (320 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Zafira will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 2009 Opel Zafira | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elan | Zafira |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 58 L |
