1966 Lotus Elan vs. 2006 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2006 Mini Cooper is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mini Cooper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mini Cooper (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mini Cooper weights approximately 429 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 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 1966 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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. 2006 Mini Cooper has automatic transmission and 1966 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1966 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mini Cooper will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 2006 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | Lotus | Mini |
| Model | Elan | Cooper |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 50 L |
