1971 Lotus Elan vs. 2007 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2007 Opel Vectra is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Opel Vectra (276 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Opel Vectra weights approximately 710 kg more than 1971 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Opel Vectra (355 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2007 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Lotus Elan | 2007 Opel Vectra | |
Make | Lotus | Opel |
Model | Elan | Vectra |
Year Released | 1971 | 2007 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2792 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 126 HP | 276 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 355 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 74.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1580 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4620 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 61 L |