1981 Lotus Esprit vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 25 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 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (198 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1981 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 305 kg more than 1981 Lotus Esprit. 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, 2006 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, 2006 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lotus Esprit | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Esprit | Astra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 52 L |
