2005 Lotus Elise vs. 1982 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Lotus Elise is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,997 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1982 Pontiac Firebird. (168 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1982 Pontiac Firebird.
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, 1982 Pontiac Firebird (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Lotus Elise. (186 Nm @ 6800 RPM). This means 1982 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lotus Elise | 1982 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Lotus | Pontiac |
| Model | Elise | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 4997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 60 L |
