1996 Mini MK VI vs. 2012 Lotus Exige
To start off, 2012 Lotus Exige is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mini MK VI. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mini MK VI would be higher. At 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Lotus Exige is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lotus Exige (257 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1996 Mini MK VI. (41 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1996 Mini MK VI. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lotus Exige weights approximately 289 kg more than 1996 Mini MK VI. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Lotus Exige 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 2012 Lotus Exige. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mini MK VI, 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, 2012 Lotus Exige (236 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mini MK VI. (69 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2012 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mini MK VI.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mini MK VI | 2012 Lotus Exige | |
| Make | Mini | Lotus |
| Model | MK VI | Exige |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 998 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 257 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 620 kg | 909 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 3797 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1727 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1158 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2299 mm |
