1962 Lotus Elite vs. 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 2,348 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse (145 HP) has 62 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 630 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Lotus Elite 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 1962 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse, 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, 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite. 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse has automatic transmission and 1962 Lotus Elite has manual transmission. 1962 Lotus Elite will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elite | 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Lotus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Elite | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 2348 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 145 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 100 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 62 L |
