1996 Lotus Elise 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 Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elise. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 685 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Lotus Elise is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Elise (169 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Vectra. (162 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Vectra. 2003 Opel Vectra has automatic transmission and 1996 Lotus Elise has manual transmission. 1996 Lotus Elise 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 Elise | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elise | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 197 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 12.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 705 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 60 L |
