2009 Lotus Elise vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Opel Astra 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 (218 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 280 kg more than 2009 Lotus Elise.
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, 2006 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, 2009 Lotus Elise (212 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lotus Elise | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elise | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1364 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 212 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.8 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 52 L |
