1963 Lotus Elan vs. 1982 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1982 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 4,997 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Pontiac Firebird (168 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1963 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1963 Lotus Elan.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1982 Pontiac Firebird (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Lotus Elan. (138 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1982 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Lotus Elan | 1982 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Lotus | Pontiac |
| Model | Elan | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 4997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
