1959 Lotus Seven vs. 1972 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1972 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 6,598 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Pontiac Firebird (185 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (74 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 1233 kg more than 1959 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1972 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 1959 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1959 Lotus Seven will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Lotus Seven | 1972 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Lotus | Pontiac |
| Model | Seven | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 6598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 420 kg | 1653 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2750 mm |
