2003 Chrysler Sebring vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2003 Chrysler Sebring is newer by 22 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 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lotus Esprit (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2003 Chrysler Sebring. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2003 Chrysler Sebring. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler Sebring weights approximately 410 kg more than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
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, 2003 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, 1981 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chrysler Sebring. (188 Nm @ 4350 RPM). This means 1981 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chrysler Sebring.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler Sebring | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
| Model | Sebring | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4350 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 67 L |
