1979 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2002 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2002 Lotus Elise is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 1,811 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1979 Chrysler 1609. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1979 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 350 kg more than 2002 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, 2002 Lotus Elise (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2002 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Chrysler 1609 | 2002 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
| Model | 1609 | Elise |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1811 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2310 mm |
