1971 Lotus Seven vs. 1991 Opel Astra
To start off, 1991 Opel Astra is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,686 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Lotus Seven (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1991 Opel Astra. (82 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Lotus Seven should accelerate faster than 1991 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Opel Astra weights approximately 536 kg more than 1971 Lotus Seven.
Because 1971 Lotus Seven 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 Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1991 Opel Astra (168 Nm) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Seven. (92 Nm). This means 1991 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Seven.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Lotus Seven | 1991 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Seven | Astra |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1340 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 160 km/hour | 164 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 | 594 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 75 L |
