1985 Lotus Excel vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Lotus Excel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Lotus Excel would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Lotus Excel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1985 Lotus Excel. (181 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1985 Lotus Excel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 454 kg more than 1985 Lotus Excel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Lotus Excel 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 1985 Lotus Excel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Lotus Excel. (232 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Lotus Excel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Lotus Excel | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Excel | Astra |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | 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 | 181 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 232 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.9:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 234 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1171 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1020 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 52 L |
