2009 Lotus Elise vs. 2004 MG ZS
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 MG ZS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 MG ZS would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (218 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2004 MG ZS. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 2004 MG ZS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 MG ZS weights approximately 125 kg more than 2009 Lotus Elise.
Because 2009 Lotus Elise 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 2009 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 MG ZS, 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, 2009 Lotus Elise (212 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 MG ZS. (165 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 MG ZS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lotus Elise | 2004 MG ZS | |
| Make | Lotus | MG |
| Model | Elise | ZS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 212 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2630 mm |
