1996 Lotus Esprit vs. 1977 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1996 Lotus Esprit is newer by 19 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, 1996 Lotus Esprit (285 HP) has 160 more horse power than 1977 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (125 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1977 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Lotus Esprit (510 Nm) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (306 Nm). This means 1996 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 1977 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 1996 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1996 Lotus Esprit 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:
| 1996 Lotus Esprit | 1977 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Lotus | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Esprit | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 5798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 285 HP | 125 HP |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 306 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 103.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 85.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2760 mm |
