1980 Lotus Esprit vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 28 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 190 kg more than 1980 Lotus Esprit.
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, 2008 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 (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (176 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1980 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lotus Esprit | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Esprit | Astra |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 52 L |
