1980 Lotus Eclat vs. 1988 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 1988 Pontiac Grand Am is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lotus Eclat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lotus Eclat would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Pontiac Grand Am weights approximately 185 kg more than 1980 Lotus Eclat.
Because 1980 Lotus Eclat 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 1980 Lotus Eclat. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Pontiac Grand Am, 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. 1988 Pontiac Grand Am has automatic transmission and 1980 Lotus Eclat has manual transmission. 1980 Lotus Eclat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Pontiac Grand Am will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lotus Eclat | 1988 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | Lotus | Pontiac |
| Model | Eclat | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 163 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2630 mm |
