1997 Lotus Elise vs. 2007 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2007 Opel Vectra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 2,197 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Opel Vectra (153 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1997 Lotus Elise. (117 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1997 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Opel Vectra weights approximately 845 kg more than 1997 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Opel Vectra (220 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Lotus Elise. (169 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Lotus Elise | 2007 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elise | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 117 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.4 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 705 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.3 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 60 L |
