1989 Lotus Elan vs. 1971 Opel Admiral
To start off, 1989 Lotus Elan is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Opel Admiral. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Opel Admiral would be higher. At 2,784 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Opel Admiral is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1971 Opel Admiral. (142 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1971 Opel Admiral. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Opel Admiral weights approximately 455 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Because 1971 Opel Admiral 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 1971 Opel Admiral. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan, 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, 1971 Opel Admiral (227 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1971 Opel Admiral will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Lotus Elan | 1971 Opel Admiral | |
Make | Lotus | Opel |
Model | Elan | Admiral |
Year Released | 1989 | 1971 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2784 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 165 HP | 142 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 201 Nm | 227 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 69.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1475 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4910 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2850 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |