1986 Chrysler Laser vs. 1998 Panoz Esperante
To start off, 1998 Panoz Esperante is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Chrysler Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Chrysler Laser would be higher. At 4,599 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Panoz Esperante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Panoz Esperante (317 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 221 more horse power than 1986 Chrysler Laser. (96 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Panoz Esperante should accelerate faster than 1986 Chrysler Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Panoz Esperante weights approximately 135 kg more than 1986 Chrysler Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Panoz Esperante 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 1998 Panoz Esperante. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1998 Panoz Esperante (426 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 264 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Chrysler Laser. (162 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1998 Panoz Esperante will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Chrysler Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Chrysler Laser | 1998 Panoz Esperante | |
| Make | Chrysler | Panoz |
| Model | Laser | Esperante |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2213 cc | 4599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 426 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1135 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2720 mm |
