1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2003 Opel Vectra. (152 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 564 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, 2003 Opel Vectra (220 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan. 2003 Opel Vectra 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. 2003 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elan | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 152 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1584 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2840 mm |
