2000 Chrysler Panel Cruiser vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2000 Chrysler Panel Cruiser is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,398 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Chrysler Panel Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lotus Esprit (208 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2000 Chrysler Panel Cruiser. (200 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2000 Chrysler Panel Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Chrysler Panel Cruiser weights approximately 364 kg more than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1981 Lotus Esprit 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 1981 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Chrysler Panel 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, 1981 Lotus Esprit (277 Nm) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Chrysler Panel Cruiser. (271 Nm). This means 1981 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Chrysler Panel Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Chrysler Panel Cruiser | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
| Model | Panel Cruiser | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 277 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1564 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2450 mm |
