2005 Lotus Elise vs. 1988 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2005 Lotus Elise is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Opel Kadett is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Elise (190 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1988 Opel Kadett. (150 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1988 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Opel Kadett weights approximately 111 kg more than 2005 Lotus Elise.
Because 2005 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 2005 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Opel Kadett, 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, 1988 Opel Kadett (195 Nm) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Lotus Elise. (187 Nm). This means 1988 Opel Kadett will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lotus Elise | 1988 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elise | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 896 kg | 1007 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2530 mm |
