2007 Lotus Exige vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Lotus Exige is newer by 9 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), 2007 Lotus Exige is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Lotus Exige (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 204 kg more than 2007 Lotus Exige.
Because 2007 Lotus Exige 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 2007 Lotus Exige. 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, 2007 Lotus Exige (180 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2007 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Lotus Exige | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Exige | Astra |
| Year Released | 2007 | 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 | 189 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | 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 | 916 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2620 mm |
