1989 Lotus Elan vs. 1970 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 1989 Lotus Elan is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Pontiac Grand Prix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Pontiac Grand Prix would be higher. At 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1970 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Pontiac Grand Prix (185 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Elan. (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 765 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Pontiac Grand Prix 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 1970 Pontiac Grand Prix. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan, 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, 1970 Pontiac Grand Prix (434 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 233 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1970 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lotus Elan | 1970 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | Lotus | Pontiac |
| Model | Elan | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 6547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 434 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3010 mm |
