1974 Lotus Elite vs. 2003 Mitsubishi Magna
To start off, 2003 Mitsubishi Magna is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 2,971 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mitsubishi Magna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mitsubishi Magna (187 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1974 Lotus Elite. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mitsubishi Magna should accelerate faster than 1974 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mitsubishi Magna weights approximately 395 kg more than 1974 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Lotus Elite 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 1974 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mitsubishi Magna, 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 Mitsubishi Magna (255 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Mitsubishi Magna will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lotus Elite | 2003 Mitsubishi Magna | |
| Make | Lotus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Elite | Magna |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 2971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2730 mm |
