2005 Lotus Elise vs. 1989 Vauxhall Nova
To start off, 2005 Lotus Elise is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Vauxhall Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Vauxhall Nova would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1989 Vauxhall Nova. (44 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1989 Vauxhall Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lotus Elise weights approximately 45 kg more than 1989 Vauxhall Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1989 Vauxhall Nova, 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, 2005 Lotus Elise (174 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Vauxhall Nova. (69 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2005 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Vauxhall Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lotus Elise | 1989 Vauxhall Nova | |
| Make | Lotus | Vauxhall |
| Model | Elise | Nova |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 69 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2350 mm |
