2004 Chrysler 300 vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2004 Chrysler 300 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 3,523 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chrysler 300 (247 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chrysler 300 should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 795 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Chrysler 300 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 2004 Chrysler 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan, 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, 2004 Chrysler 300 (360 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2004 Chrysler 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan. 2004 Chrysler 300 has automatic transmission and 1996 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1996 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Chrysler 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chrysler 300 | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
| Model | 300 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3523 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2260 mm |
