1990 Lotus Elan vs. 1987 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1990 Lotus Elan is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Opel Kadett is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1987 Opel Kadett. (81 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1987 Opel Kadett.
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, 1990 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Opel Kadett. (132 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1990 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Lotus Elan | 1987 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elan | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1390 mm |
