1996 Chrysler Cirrus vs. 2011 Lotus Exige
To start off, 2011 Lotus Exige is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chrysler Cirrus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chrysler Cirrus would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chrysler Cirrus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lotus Exige (257 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1996 Chrysler Cirrus. (168 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1996 Chrysler Cirrus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chrysler Cirrus weights approximately 525 kg more than 2011 Lotus Exige.
Because 2011 Lotus Exige 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 Exige. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Chrysler Cirrus, 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 Exige (236 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chrysler Cirrus. (230 Nm @ 4350 RPM). This means 2011 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chrysler Cirrus. 1996 Chrysler Cirrus has automatic transmission and 2011 Lotus Exige has manual transmission. 2011 Lotus Exige will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chrysler Cirrus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chrysler Cirrus | 2011 Lotus Exige | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
| Model | Cirrus | Exige |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 257 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4350 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 909 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3797 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1727 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1158 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2299 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 44 L |
