1985 Chrysler Laser vs. 2003 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2003 Lotus Elise is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Chrysler Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Chrysler Laser would be higher. At 2,212 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Chrysler Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lotus Elise (121 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1985 Chrysler Laser. (96 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1985 Chrysler Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Chrysler Laser weights approximately 385 kg more than 2003 Lotus Elise.
Because 2003 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 2003 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 2003 Lotus Elise (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Chrysler Laser. (162 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Chrysler Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Chrysler Laser | 2003 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
| Model | Laser | Elise |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2212 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 121 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1135 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2310 mm |
