1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1976 Mitsubishi Minica
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 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 134 more horse power than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. (29 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 490 kg more than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mitsubishi Minica 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 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica. (37 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mitsubishi Minica.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Lotus Elan | 1976 Mitsubishi Minica | |
Make | Lotus | Mitsubishi |
Model | Elan | Minica |
Year Released | 1996 | 1976 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 471 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 29 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 37 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 530 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1300 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2010 mm |