2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan 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 490 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Elan |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 65 L |
