2009 Lotus Elise vs. 1981 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (219 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1981 Opel Ascona. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1981 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Opel Ascona weights approximately 39 kg more than 2009 Lotus Elise.
Let's talk about torque, 2009 Lotus Elise (212 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Opel Ascona. (101 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lotus Elise | 1981 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elise | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 219 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 212 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 881 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 44 L | 70 L |
