1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1982 Opel Ascona
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Opel Ascona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1982 Opel Ascona. (115 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1982 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Opel Ascona weights approximately 45 kg more than 1996 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Opel Ascona. (154 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1982 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elan | Ascona |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 154 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2740 mm |
