1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1974 Mitsubishi Minica
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mitsubishi Minica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mitsubishi Minica would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1974 Mitsubishi Minica. (33 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1974 Mitsubishi Minica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 550 kg more than 1974 Mitsubishi Minica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mitsubishi Minica. (39 Nm @ 6500 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mitsubishi Minica.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1974 Mitsubishi Minica | |
| Make | Lotus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Elan | Minica |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 357 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 33 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 39 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1300 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2010 mm |
