2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1980 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,427 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Lotus Esprit (210 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lotus Esprit 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 386 kg more than 1980 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1980 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 1980 Lotus Esprit. 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, 1980 Lotus Esprit (271 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1980 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2427 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 95.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.3 seconds | 6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1219 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2440 mm |
