1989 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 305 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1989 Lotus Elan (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer. (198 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lotus Elan | 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Lotus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Elan | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4572 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2634 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 59 L |
