1985 Chrysler Laser vs. 2010 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2010 Lotus Elise is newer by 25 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 2,499 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Chrysler Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Lotus Elise (433 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 333 more horse power than 1985 Chrysler Laser. (100 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1985 Chrysler Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Lotus Elise weights approximately 656 kg more than 1985 Chrysler Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 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 2010 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, 2010 Lotus Elise (489 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Chrysler Laser. (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2010 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 | 2010 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
| Model | Laser | Elise |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 433 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 489 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1881 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4882 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1915 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1354 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2941 mm |
