1971 Lotus Elan vs. 2008 Opel Corsa
To start off, 2008 Opel Corsa is newer by 37 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 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Lotus Elan (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2008 Opel Corsa. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Corsa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Corsa weights approximately 805 kg more than 1971 Lotus Elan.
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, 2008 Opel Corsa, 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, 2008 Opel Corsa (200 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Corsa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Lotus Elan | 2008 Opel Corsa | |
Make | Lotus | Opel |
Model | Elan | Corsa |
Year Released | 1971 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1248 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 126 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 200 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 167 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 | 1675 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4010 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 44 L |