1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse (208 HP) has 48 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 353 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.
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, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse (279 Nm) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Lotus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Elan | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2972 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 208 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 279 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 76 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2570 mm |
