1986 Chrysler Laser vs. 2011 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2011 Lotus Elise is newer by 25 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 2,213 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Chrysler Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lotus Elise (217 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1986 Chrysler Laser. (96 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1986 Chrysler Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Chrysler Laser weights approximately 209 kg more than 2011 Lotus Elise.
Because 2011 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 2011 Lotus Elise. 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, 2011 Lotus Elise (210 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Chrysler Laser. (162 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2011 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Chrysler Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Chrysler Laser | 2011 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
| Model | Laser | Elise |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2213 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1135 kg | 926 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1118 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2299 mm |
