1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1971 Opel Admiral

To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Opel Admiral. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Opel Admiral would be higher. At 2,784 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Opel Admiral is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 18 more horse power than 1971 Opel Admiral. (142 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1971 Opel Admiral. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Opel Admiral weights approximately 478 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.

Because 1971 Opel Admiral 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 1971 Opel Admiral. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan, 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, 1971 Opel Admiral (227 Nm) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1971 Opel Admiral will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.

Compare all specifications:

1991 Lotus Elan 1971 Opel Admiral
Make Lotus Opel
Model Elan Admiral
Year Released 1991 1971
Body Type Convertible Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1588 cc 2784 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 160 HP 142 HP
Torque 143 Nm 227 Nm
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 92 mm
Engine Stroke Size 79 mm 69.8 mm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 997 kg 1475 kg
Vehicle Length 3810 mm 4910 mm
Vehicle Width 1740 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1240 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2260 mm 2850 mm