1998 Lotus 340 R vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lotus 340 R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lotus 340 R would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1998 Lotus 340 R. (190 HP @ 7800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1998 Lotus 340 R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 711 kg more than 1998 Lotus 340 R. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Lotus 340 R 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 1998 Lotus 340 R. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra, 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, 2004 Opel Astra (262 Nm) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lotus 340 R. (198 Nm). This means 2004 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Lotus 340 R.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lotus 340 R | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | 340 R | Astra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 675 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 52 L |
