1997 Lotus Elise vs. 2004 Mitsubishi Magna
To start off, 2004 Mitsubishi Magna is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 2,351 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mitsubishi Magna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mitsubishi Magna (141 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1997 Lotus Elise. (117 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mitsubishi Magna should accelerate faster than 1997 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mitsubishi Magna weights approximately 665 kg more than 1997 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mitsubishi Magna, 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, 2004 Mitsubishi Magna (205 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Lotus Elise. (169 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mitsubishi Magna will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Lotus Elise | 2004 Mitsubishi Magna | |
| Make | Lotus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Elise | Magna |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2351 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 117 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.4 mm | 100 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 705 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2730 mm |
