1969 Austin Mini Clubman vs. 1974 Lotus Elite
To start off, 1974 Lotus Elite is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Austin Mini Clubman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Austin Mini Clubman would be higher. At 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Lotus Elite is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Elite (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1969 Austin Mini Clubman. (39 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1969 Austin Mini Clubman. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Lotus Elite weights approximately 422 kg more than 1969 Austin Mini Clubman. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Lotus Elite 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 1974 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 Austin Mini Clubman, 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, 1974 Lotus Elite (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Austin Mini Clubman. (71 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1974 Lotus Elite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Austin Mini Clubman.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Austin Mini Clubman | 1974 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Austin | Lotus |
| Model | Mini Clubman | Elite |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 998 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 69.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 119 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 638 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3170 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 67 L |
