2009 Lotus Elise vs. 2012 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2012 Toyota Matrix is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2012 Toyota Matrix. (158 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 2012 Toyota Matrix.
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, 2012 Toyota Matrix, 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, 2012 Toyota Matrix (219 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Lotus Elise. (181 Nm @ 6800 RPM). This means 2012 Toyota Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lotus Elise | 2012 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Lotus | Toyota |
| Model | Elise | Matrix |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1549 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2601 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 50 L |
