1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1986 Mitsubishi Magna
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mitsubishi Magna. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mitsubishi Magna would be higher. At 2,553 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Mitsubishi Magna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1986 Mitsubishi Magna. (111 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1986 Mitsubishi Magna. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mitsubishi Magna weights approximately 305 kg more than 1996 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mitsubishi Magna. (195 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mitsubishi Magna. 1986 Mitsubishi Magna has automatic transmission and 1996 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1996 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mitsubishi Magna will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1986 Mitsubishi Magna | |
| Make | Lotus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Elan | Magna |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2553 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2600 mm |
