1989 Lotus Elan vs. 1981 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1989 Lotus Elan is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lotus Elan weights approximately 180 kg more than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1989 Lotus Elan (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. (88 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Lotus Elan | 1981 Vauxhall Astra | |
Make | Lotus | Vauxhall |
Model | Elan | Astra |
Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1196 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 165 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 201 Nm | 88 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 61 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 840 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4010 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1650 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2520 mm |