1971 Lotus Elan vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 38 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 516 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, 2009 Opel Astra, 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 Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Lotus Elan | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elan | Astra |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 52 L |
