1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 16 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 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2012 Opel Astra. (138 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2012 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 258 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 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Opel Astra. (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elan | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3800 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 | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2620 mm |
