1981 Lotus Esprit vs. 1991 Opel Astra
To start off, 1991 Opel Astra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lotus Esprit (208 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1991 Opel Astra. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1991 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 105 kg more than 1991 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Lotus Esprit. 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, 1981 Lotus Esprit (277 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Opel Astra. (135 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1981 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Lotus Esprit | 1991 Opel Astra | |
Make | Lotus | Opel |
Model | Esprit | Astra |
Year Released | 1981 | 1991 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2172 cc | 1597 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 208 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 277 Nm | 135 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1095 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4280 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2640 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 71 L | 52 L |