1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1986 Opel Ascona
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Opel Ascona 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 1986 Opel Ascona. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1986 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 100 kg more than 1986 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Opel Ascona. (101 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1986 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elan | Ascona |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| 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 | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2580 mm |
