1999 Lotus Esprit vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 3,498 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus Esprit (350 HP) has 212 more horse power than 2009 Opel Astra. (138 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2009 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 100 kg more than 2009 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Lotus Esprit 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 Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1999 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Opel Astra. (175 Nm). This means 1999 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Lotus Esprit | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Esprit | Astra |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 286 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1378 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 52 L |
