1989 Lotus Esprit vs. 2001 Opel Astra
To start off, 2001 Opel Astra is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Esprit 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 64 more horse power than 2001 Opel Astra. (152 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Astra weights approximately 242 kg more than 1989 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1989 Lotus Esprit 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 1989 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Opel 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, 1989 Lotus Esprit (298 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lotus Esprit | 2001 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Esprit | Astra |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 152 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1148 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2620 mm |
