1997 Mitsubishi Verada vs. 2012 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2012 Lotus Elise is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mitsubishi Verada. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mitsubishi Verada would be higher. At 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mitsubishi Verada is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lotus Elise (217 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1997 Mitsubishi Verada. (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1997 Mitsubishi Verada. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mitsubishi Verada weights approximately 584 kg more than 2012 Lotus Elise.
Because 2012 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 2012 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mitsubishi Verada, 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, 1997 Mitsubishi Verada (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Lotus Elise. (210 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 Mitsubishi Verada will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Lotus Elise. 1997 Mitsubishi Verada has automatic transmission and 2012 Lotus Elise has manual transmission. 2012 Lotus Elise will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mitsubishi Verada will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mitsubishi Verada | 2012 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Lotus |
| Model | Verada | Elise |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3497 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 926 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 3785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1118 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2299 mm |
