1965 Lotus Elan vs. 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 34 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 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse (208 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1965 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1965 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 690 kg more than 1965 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 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 1965 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Lotus Elan | 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Lotus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Elan | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2972 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 81 L |
