1974 Lotus Elite vs. 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 38 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1974 Lotus Elite. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1974 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 265 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, 2012 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, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer (198 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lotus Elite | 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Lotus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Elite | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4572 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2634 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 59 L |
