1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2005 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2005 Lotus Elise is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Elise (190 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 522 kg more than 2005 Lotus Elise.
Because 2005 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 2005 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (220 Nm) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Lotus Elise. (187 Nm). This means 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2005 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Elise |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1418 kg | 896 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2310 mm |
