1968 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,376 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse (147 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 495 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 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 1968 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse (220 Nm) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm). This means 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Lotus Elan | 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Lotus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Elan | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2376 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 147 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 100 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 62 L |
