2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1969 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Lotus Elan (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 476 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Because 1969 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 1969 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (151 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1969 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
Model | PT Cruiser | Elan |
Year Released | 2003 | 1969 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1558 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 118 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 151 Nm | 146 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 82.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 72.8 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 889 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1200 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2440 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 59 L |