Germany vs United Kingdom — 1968 vs 1971
| GT 1900 | Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 90 hp | 126 hp |
| Torque | 109 lb-ft | 117 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,897 cc | 1,558 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.2 sec | 6.7 sec |
| Top Speed | 115 mph | 120 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.0 sec | 15.2 sec |
| Weight | 2,050 lbs | 1,519 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm | 2,134 mm |
| Length | 4,145 mm | 3,658 mm |
| Units Produced | 103,373 | 1,353 |
| Original MSRP | $3,395 | $4,795 |
| Value (Excellent) | $35,000 | $75,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 8/10 |
The 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1968 Opel GT 1900 counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
When Germany engineering meets United Kingdom craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1968 Opel GT 1900 and 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe holds a clear advantage in raw power with 126 hp compared to 90 hp, a 36-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Opel GT uses a Inline-4 displacing 1,897 cc, while the Lotus Elan Sprint relies on a Inline-4 DOHC with 1,558 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe edges ahead at 6.7 seconds versus 9.2 seconds. The Lotus Elan Sprint carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 531 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,353 units built, the 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe is considerably scarcer than the Opel GT's 103,373 examples. On the collector market, the 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe commands a significant premium over the 1968 Opel GT 1900, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.