2006 Lotus Elise vs. 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 2006 Lotus Elise is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 2,473 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lotus Elise (190 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 274 kg more than 2006 Lotus Elise.
Because 2006 Lotus Elise 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 2006 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass, 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, 2006 Lotus Elise (187 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Lotus Elise | 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Lotus | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Elise | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1803 cc | 2473 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 896 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2640 mm |
