1991 Lotus Esprit vs. 1994 Opel Astra
To start off, 1994 Opel Astra is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Esprit (172 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1994 Opel Astra. (81 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1994 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 100 kg more than 1994 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 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 1991 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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, 1991 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Opel Astra. (114 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1991 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Esprit | 1994 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Esprit | Astra |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2620 mm |
