1965 Lotus Elan vs. 1966 Mitsubishi 500
To start off, 1966 Mitsubishi 500 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1965 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1965 Lotus Elan (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1966 Mitsubishi 500. (23 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1965 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1966 Mitsubishi 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1965 Lotus Elan weights approximately 130 kg more than 1966 Mitsubishi 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Lotus Elan | 1966 Mitsubishi 500 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Elan | 500 |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 23 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 3170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2070 mm |
