1989 Lotus Carlton vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1989 Lotus Carlton is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,012 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine.
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, 1989 Lotus Carlton (569 Nm) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (324 Nm). This means 1989 Lotus Carlton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lotus Carlton | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Lotus | Pontiac |
| Model | Carlton | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3615 cc | 5012 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 145 HP |
| Torque | 569 Nm | 324 Nm |
| Top Speed | 289 km/hour | 160 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2750 mm |
