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, 2000 Chrysler Panel Cruiser (200 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Chrysler Panel Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1981 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Chrysler Panel Cruiser weights approximately 444 kg more than 1981 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2000 Chrysler Panel Cruiser (271 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm). This means 2000 Chrysler Panel Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
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 | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1564 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2440 mm |
