1964 Lotus Elan vs. 1972 Mini MK III
To start off, 1972 Mini MK III is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1964 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1964 Lotus Elan (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1972 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1964 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1972 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Mini MK III weights approximately 20 kg more than 1964 Lotus Elan.
Because 1964 Lotus Elan 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 1964 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 Mini MK III, 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, 1964 Lotus Elan (138 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1964 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mini MK III.
Compare all specifications:
1964 Lotus Elan | 1972 Mini MK III | |
Make | Lotus | Mini |
Model | Elan | MK III |
Year Released | 1964 | 1972 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 848 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 34 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 138 Nm | 61 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 590 kg | 610 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 3060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2040 mm |