1990 Lotus Elan vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 18 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), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 245 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 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1990 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Lotus Elan | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elan | Astra |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2620 mm |
