1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1980 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 165 kg more than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. (102 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. 1980 Vauxhall Astra has automatic transmission and 1996 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1996 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Vauxhall Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Lotus Elan | 1980 Vauxhall Astra | |
Make | Lotus | Vauxhall |
Model | Elan | Astra |
Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1297 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 102 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 855 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4010 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1650 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2520 mm |