2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1996 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 2,425 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elise. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 797 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Lotus Elise. 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 (332 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elise. (169 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1996 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Elise |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1502 kg | 705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 40 L |
