1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2013 Mini Coupe
To start off, 2013 Mini Coupe is newer by 17 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 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mini Coupe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2013 Mini Coupe. (121 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2013 Mini Coupe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mini Coupe weights approximately 115 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 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Mini Coupe. (160 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Mini Coupe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 2013 Mini Coupe | |
| Make | Lotus | Mini |
| Model | Elan | Coupe |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 121 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3728 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1892 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1378 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2467 mm |
