1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 37 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 2,376 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer (162 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 401 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, 2006 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, 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Lotus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Elan | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| 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 | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 889 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 50 L |
