1980 Lotus Esprit vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Lotus Esprit (210 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 99 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Lotus Esprit 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 1980 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1980 Lotus Esprit (271 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1980 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lotus Esprit | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Esprit | Astra |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1219 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2620 mm |
