1962 Lotus Elite vs. 2008 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2008 Mini Cooper is newer by 46 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mini Cooper is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mini Cooper weights approximately 465 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elite.
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, 2008 Mini Cooper, 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, 2008 Mini Cooper (150 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite. 2008 Mini Cooper 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. 2008 Mini Cooper will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elite | 2008 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | Lotus | Mini |
| Model | Elite | Cooper |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 85.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 50 L |
