1989 Lotus Esprit vs. 1981 Opel Ascona
To start off, 1989 Lotus Esprit is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Esprit (216 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1981 Opel Ascona. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1981 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 228 kg more than 1981 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1989 Lotus Esprit (298 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Opel Ascona. (101 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lotus Esprit | 1981 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Esprit | Ascona |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1148 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2580 mm |
