1963 Lotus Elan vs. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix is newer by 34 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 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1963 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 1963 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 956 kg more than 1963 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 Lotus Elan 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 1963 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Lotus Elan. (138 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Lotus Elan. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix has automatic transmission and 1963 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1963 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1963 Lotus Elan | 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
Make | Lotus | Pontiac |
Model | Elan | Grand Prix |
Year Released | 1963 | 1997 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 3785 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 138 Nm | 305 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 96.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.7 mm | 86.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 594 kg | 1550 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 5000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2810 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 66 L |