1994 Lotus Elan vs. 1976 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1994 Lotus Elan is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1976 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1976 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Lotus Elan weights approximately 230 kg more than 1976 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Opel Kadett 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 1976 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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, 1994 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1994 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
1994 Lotus Elan | 1976 Opel Kadett | |
Make | Lotus | Opel |
Model | Elan | Kadett |
Year Released | 1994 | 1976 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1194 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 51 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 80 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 790 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4140 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1590 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2410 mm |