1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 11 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 2,348 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 15 more horse power than 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (145 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 293 kg more than 1991 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, 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse (214 Nm) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2002 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 | 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Lotus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Elan | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2348 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 145 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 100 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 | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2570 mm |
