1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1971 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Pontiac Firebird (285 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 576 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1971 Pontiac Firebird (421 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1971 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1971 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Lotus | Pontiac |
| Model | Elan | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 6547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 285 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 421 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 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 |
