2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lotus Esprit (208 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 310 kg more than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1981 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 1981 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1981 Lotus Esprit (277 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 277 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 71 L |
