1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2011 Opel Insignia
To start off, 2011 Opel Insignia is newer by 15 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Opel Insignia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2011 Opel Insignia. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2011 Opel Insignia.
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 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Opel Insignia. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Opel Insignia. 2011 Opel Insignia 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. 2011 Opel Insignia will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 2011 Opel Insignia | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elan | Insignia |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1856 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1498 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2737 mm |
