2003 Lotus Elise vs. 1996 Suzuki Esteem
To start off, 2003 Lotus Elise is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Suzuki Esteem. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Suzuki Esteem would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lotus Elise (121 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1996 Suzuki Esteem. (70 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1996 Suzuki Esteem. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lotus Elise weights approximately 10 kg more than 1996 Suzuki Esteem. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Suzuki Esteem, 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 Lotus Elise (175 Nm) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Suzuki Esteem. (128 Nm). This means 2003 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Suzuki Esteem.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lotus Elise | 1996 Suzuki Esteem | |
| Make | Lotus | Suzuki |
| Model | Elise | Esteem |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 121 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2490 mm |
