1989 Chrysler TC vs. 2009 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Chrysler TC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Chrysler TC would be higher. At 2,213 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Chrysler TC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (218 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1989 Chrysler TC. (176 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1989 Chrysler TC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Chrysler TC weights approximately 524 kg more than 2009 Lotus Elise.
Because 2009 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 2009 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Chrysler TC, 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, 1989 Chrysler TC (271 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Lotus Elise. (212 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1989 Chrysler TC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Chrysler TC | 2009 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
| Model | TC | Elise |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2213 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 212 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1474 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2310 mm |
