1996 Lotus Elise vs. 2007 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2007 Mini Cooper is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elise would be higher. In terms of performance, 2007 Mini Cooper (173 HP @ 1600 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elise. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elise.
Because 1996 Lotus Elise 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 1996 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Mini Cooper, 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, 2007 Mini Cooper (240 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elise. (169 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Lotus Elise | 2007 Mini Cooper | |
Make | Lotus | Mini |
Model | Elise | Cooper |
Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 116 HP | 173 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Torque | 169 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 3630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2470 mm |