2005 Lotus Elise vs. 2003 Subaru R2
To start off, 2005 Lotus Elise is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Subaru R2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Subaru R2 would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2003 Subaru R2. (52 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru R2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lotus Elise weights approximately 5 kg more than 2003 Subaru R2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Subaru R2, 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, 2005 Lotus Elise (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru R2. (63 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2005 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru R2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lotus Elise | 2003 Subaru R2 | |
| Make | Lotus | Subaru |
| Model | Elise | R2 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 658 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 63 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 780 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 30 L |
