2005 Lotus Elise vs. 2012 Lexus CT
To start off, 2012 Lexus CT is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Lexus CT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus CT (134 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2005 Lotus Elise. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus CT should accelerate faster than 2005 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus CT weights approximately 642 kg more than 2005 Lotus Elise. 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, 2012 Lexus CT, 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, 2012 Lexus CT (192 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Lotus Elise. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus CT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lotus Elise | 2012 Lexus CT | |
| Make | Lotus | Lexus |
| Model | Elise | CT |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 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 | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 192 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 1427 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4321 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2601 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 45 L |
