1969 Lotus Elan vs. 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star
To start off, 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star is newer by 29 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 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Lotus Elan (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star. (97 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star weights approximately 261 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan.
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, 1998 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, 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star | |
| Make | Lotus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Elan | Space Star |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 889 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2510 mm |
