2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1987 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (253 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1987 Lotus Esprit. (172 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1987 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 296 kg more than 1987 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 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 1987 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1987 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (188 Nm @ 4150 RPM). This means 1987 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1987 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | 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 | 253 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4150 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1104 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 67 L |
