2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1996 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Esprit (285 HP) has 171 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Because 1996 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 1996 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, 1996 Lotus Esprit (510 Nm) has 353 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm). This means 1996 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 | 1996 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 285 HP |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 176 km/hour | 265 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2420 mm |
