1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1998 Mitsubishi Magna
To start off, 1998 Mitsubishi Magna is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mitsubishi Magna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mitsubishi Magna (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mitsubishi Magna should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mitsubishi Magna weights approximately 410 kg more than 1996 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, 1998 Mitsubishi Magna (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1998 Mitsubishi Magna will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1998 Mitsubishi Magna | |
| Make | Lotus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Elan | Magna |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2730 mm |
