1968 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 Mitsubishi Space Star
To start off, 2005 Mitsubishi Space Star 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 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mitsubishi Space Star is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lotus Elan (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2005 Mitsubishi Space Star. (102 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2005 Mitsubishi Space Star. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mitsubishi Space Star weights approximately 500 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan.
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 Space Star, 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 Space Star (220 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mitsubishi Space Star 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 Space Star | |
| Make | Lotus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Elan | Space Star |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
