2002 Lotus Elise vs. 2001 Opel Astra
To start off, 2002 Lotus Elise is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Elise (156 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2001 Opel Astra. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Astra weights approximately 544 kg more than 2002 Lotus Elise.
Because 2002 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 2002 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2002 Lotus Elise (180 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Astra. (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2002 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lotus Elise | 2001 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elise | Astra |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 806 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 52 L |
