2001 Chrysler Sebring vs. 1971 Lotus Elan

To start off, 2001 Chrysler Sebring is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,736 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Chrysler Sebring is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chrysler Sebring (200 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chrysler Sebring should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chrysler Sebring weights approximately 730 kg more than 1971 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1971 Lotus Elan 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 1971 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Chrysler Sebring, 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, 2001 Chrysler Sebring (258 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2001 Chrysler Sebring will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan. 2001 Chrysler Sebring has automatic transmission and 1971 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1971 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Chrysler Sebring will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2001 Chrysler Sebring 1971 Lotus Elan
Make Chrysler Lotus
Model Sebring Elan
Year Released 2001 1971
Body Type Convertible Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2736 cc 1558 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 200 HP 126 HP
Engine RPM 5900 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 258 Nm 153 Nm
Torque RPM 4300 RPM 5500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86 mm 82.6 mm
Engine Stroke Size 78.5 mm 72.8 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.7:1 10.3:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1600 kg 870 kg
Vehicle Length 4930 mm 4270 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1200 mm
Wheelbase Size 2700 mm 2440 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 100 L 59 L