1966 Lotus Europa vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1978 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Europa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Europa would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (125 HP @ 3200 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Europa. (76 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Europa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 860 kg more than 1966 Lotus Europa. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Europa. (103 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Europa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Europa | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Lotus | Pontiac |
| Model | Europa | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1468 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 332 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1080 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2750 mm |
