2004 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2011 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2011 Lotus Elise is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lotus Elise (217 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 289 kg more than 2011 Lotus Elise.
Because 2011 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 2011 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2011 Lotus Elise (210 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2011 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2011 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Cavalier | Elise |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 926 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1118 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2299 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 44 L |
