2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1958 Lotus Elite
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (180 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1958 Lotus Elite. (71 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1958 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 1379 kg more than 1958 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Lotus Elite 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 1958 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (285 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Lotus Elite. (105 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Lotus Elite. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1958 Lotus Elite has manual transmission. 1958 Lotus Elite will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1958 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Elite |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1958 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1216 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1959 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 29 L |
