1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1964 Maserati Mistral
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Maserati Mistral. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Maserati Mistral would be higher. At 3,486 cc (6 cylinders), 1964 Maserati Mistral is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1964 Maserati Mistral (232 HP) has 72 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1964 Maserati Mistral should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1964 Maserati Mistral weights approximately 243 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 Maserati Mistral 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 1964 Maserati Mistral. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan, 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, 1964 Maserati Mistral (315 Nm) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1964 Maserati Mistral will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 1964 Maserati Mistral | |
| Make | Lotus | Maserati |
| Model | Elan | Mistral |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1964 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3486 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 232 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2410 mm |
