1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1977 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,012 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 15 more horse power than 1977 Pontiac Firebird. (145 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1977 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 599 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 1977 Pontiac Firebird 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 Pontiac Firebird. 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 Pontiac Firebird (324 Nm) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1977 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 1977 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Lotus | Pontiac |
| Model | Elan | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 5012 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 145 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 324 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 160 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2750 mm |
