1971 Lotus Elan vs. 2013 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2013 Mini Cooper is newer by 42 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 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mini Cooper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mini Cooper (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mini Cooper weights approximately 360 kg more than 1971 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2013 Mini Cooper, 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, 2013 Mini Cooper (240 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2013 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Lotus Elan | 2013 Mini Cooper | |
Make | Lotus | Mini |
Model | Elan | Cooper |
Year Released | 1971 | 2013 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 126 HP | 181 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 77 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 85 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3729 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1892 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1407 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2467 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 50 L |