1986 Mitsubishi Lancer vs. 2011 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2011 Lotus Elise is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lotus Elise (189 HP) has 115 more horse power than 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 88 kg more than 2011 Lotus Elise.
Because 2011 Lotus Elise 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 2011 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 2011 Lotus Elise (180 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer. (113 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer | 2011 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Lotus |
| Model | Lancer | Elise |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1467 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 189 HP |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 912 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 3785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1118 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2299 mm |
