1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 8 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 2,376 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer. (160 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 270 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, 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer (220 Nm) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm). This means 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Lotus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Elan | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2376 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2550 mm |
