1998 Lotus 340 R vs. 1993 Mercury Mystique
To start off, 1998 Lotus 340 R is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mercury Mystique. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mercury Mystique would be higher. At 2,543 cc (6 cylinders), 1993 Mercury Mystique is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lotus 340 R (190 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1993 Mercury Mystique. (168 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lotus 340 R should accelerate faster than 1993 Mercury Mystique. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mercury Mystique weights approximately 638 kg more than 1998 Lotus 340 R.
Because 1998 Lotus 340 R 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 1998 Lotus 340 R. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 Mercury Mystique, 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, 1993 Mercury Mystique (220 Nm) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lotus 340 R. (198 Nm). This means 1993 Mercury Mystique will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Lotus 340 R.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lotus 340 R | 1993 Mercury Mystique | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercury |
| Model | 340 R | Mystique |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 2543 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 675 kg | 1313 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2710 mm |
