2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1974 Lotus Eclat
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lotus Eclat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lotus Eclat would be higher. At 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Lotus Eclat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Eclat (160 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Eclat should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 335 kg more than 1974 Lotus Eclat.
Because 1974 Lotus Eclat 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 1974 Lotus Eclat. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1974 Lotus Eclat (190 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 1974 Lotus Eclat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 1974 Lotus Eclat has automatic transmission and 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Lotus Eclat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1974 Lotus Eclat | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Eclat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 69.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 1106 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 67 L |
