1987 Holden Astra vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1987 Holden Astra is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lotus Elan (116 HP) has 46 more horse power than 1987 Holden Astra. (70 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1987 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Holden Astra weights approximately 5 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan.
Because 1968 Lotus Elan 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 1968 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Holden 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, 1968 Lotus Elan (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Holden Astra. (115 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1968 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Holden Astra | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Holden | Lotus |
| Model | Astra | Elan |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1488 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 116 HP |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 855 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2440 mm |
