2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (119 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 593 kg more than 1996 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, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Elan |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1613 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2260 mm |
