1971 Lotus Elan vs. 2003 Mini One
To start off, 2003 Mini One is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Lotus Elan (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2003 Mini One. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2003 Mini One. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mini One weights approximately 150 kg more than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Because 1971 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 1971 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mini One, 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, 2003 Mini One (180 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2003 Mini One will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Lotus Elan | 2003 Mini One | |
| Make | Lotus | Mini |
| Model | Elan | One |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1364 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 50 L |
