2009 Lotus Elise vs. 1985 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (189 HP) has 135 more horse power than 1985 Opel Kadett. (54 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1985 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lotus Elise weights approximately 112 kg more than 1985 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 2009 Lotus Elise (181 Nm) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Opel Kadett. (89 Nm). This means 2009 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lotus Elise | 1985 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elise | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 54 HP |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 77.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 63 mm |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 154 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 838 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2530 mm |
