1969 Lotus Elan vs. 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer (111 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 335 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 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 1969 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer, 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, 1969 Lotus Elan (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer. (137 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1969 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Lotus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Elan | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1480 mm |
