1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1977 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 5,798 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 35 more horse power than 1977 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (125 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1977 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 523 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 1977 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 1977 Oldsmobile Cutlass. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1977 Oldsmobile Cutlass (306 Nm) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1977 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 1977 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 1991 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1991 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 1977 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Lotus | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Elan | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 5798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 125 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 306 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 103.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 85.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2760 mm |
