1989 Lotus Esprit vs. 1983 Pontiac Phoenix
To start off, 1989 Lotus Esprit is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Pontiac Phoenix would be higher. At 2,474 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Pontiac Phoenix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Esprit (216 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 48 kg more than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Lotus Esprit 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 1989 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Pontiac Phoenix, 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, 1989 Lotus Esprit (298 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. (181 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lotus Esprit | 1983 Pontiac Phoenix | |
| Make | Lotus | Pontiac |
| Model | Esprit | Phoenix |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2474 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 101.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1148 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2670 mm |
