1990 Lotus Elan vs. 1997 Opel Vectra
To start off, 1997 Opel Vectra is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1997 Opel Vectra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Opel Vectra weights approximately 165 kg more than 1990 Lotus Elan.
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 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Opel Vectra. (129 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1990 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Lotus Elan | 1997 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elan | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1430 mm |
