2003 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2009 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (186 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 430 kg more than 2009 Lotus Elise.
Because 2009 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 2009 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Lotus Elise. (133 Nm @ 6800 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2009 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Cavalier | Elise |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 186 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 89.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 38 L |
