1971 Chrysler Centura vs. 2009 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Chrysler Centura. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Chrysler Centura would be higher. At 1,981 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Chrysler Centura is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (218 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1971 Chrysler Centura. (119 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1971 Chrysler Centura. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Chrysler Centura weights approximately 165 kg more than 2009 Lotus Elise.
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, 2009 Lotus Elise (212 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Chrysler Centura. (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Chrysler Centura.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Chrysler Centura | 2009 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
| Model | Centura | Elise |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1981 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 212 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2310 mm |
