2003 Lotus Elise vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Lotus Elise is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lotus Elise (121 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 370 kg more than 2003 Lotus Elise.
Because 2003 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 2003 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2003 Lotus Elise (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lotus Elise | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elise | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 121 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2620 mm |
