1986 Lotus Excel vs. 2009 Pontiac G6
To start off, 2009 Pontiac G6 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Lotus Excel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Lotus Excel would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Pontiac G6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Pontiac G6 (217 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1986 Lotus Excel. (180 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Pontiac G6 should accelerate faster than 1986 Lotus Excel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Pontiac G6 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1986 Lotus Excel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Lotus Excel 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 1986 Lotus Excel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Pontiac G6, 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, 2009 Pontiac G6 (294 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Lotus Excel. (224 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Pontiac G6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Lotus Excel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Lotus Excel | 2009 Pontiac G6 | |
| Make | Lotus | Pontiac |
| Model | Excel | G6 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 294 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.9:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1177 kg | 1352 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1020 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 61 L |
