1989 Lotus Elan vs. 1986 Opel Corsa
To start off, 1989 Lotus Elan is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Opel Corsa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Opel Corsa 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 121 more horse power than 1986 Opel Corsa. (44 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1986 Opel Corsa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lotus Elan weights approximately 250 kg more than 1986 Opel Corsa. 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 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Opel Corsa. (69 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Opel Corsa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lotus Elan | 1986 Opel Corsa | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elan | Corsa |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 69 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 61 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
