1983 Chrysler Laser vs. 2004 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2004 Lotus Esprit is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Chrysler Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Chrysler Laser would be higher. At 2,211 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Chrysler Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Lotus Esprit (241 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1983 Chrysler Laser. (96 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1983 Chrysler Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 170 kg more than 1983 Chrysler Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Lotus Esprit 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 2004 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Chrysler Laser, 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, 2004 Lotus Esprit (294 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Chrysler Laser. (162 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2004 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Chrysler Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Chrysler Laser | 2004 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
| Model | Laser | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2211 cc | 1974 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 241 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 294 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1135 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2430 mm |
