1999 Lotus Elise vs. 2008 Opel Zafira
To start off, 2008 Opel Zafira is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Zafira is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Zafira (148 HP) has 30 more horse power than 1999 Lotus Elise. (118 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Zafira should accelerate faster than 1999 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Zafira weights approximately 792 kg more than 1999 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Opel Zafira, 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, 2008 Opel Zafira (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Lotus Elise. (165 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Zafira will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Lotus Elise | 2008 Opel Zafira | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elise | Zafira |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.4 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| 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 | 708 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.3 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 58 L |
