2002 Lotus Elise vs. 1977 Mini MK IV
To start off, 2002 Lotus Elise is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mini MK IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mini MK IV would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Elise (156 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1977 Mini MK IV. (44 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1977 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lotus Elise weights approximately 161 kg more than 1977 Mini MK IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Mini MK IV, 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, 2002 Lotus Elise (180 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mini MK IV. (76 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2002 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lotus Elise | 1977 Mini MK IV | |
| Make | Lotus | Mini |
| Model | Elise | MK IV |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1098 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 76 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 806 kg | 645 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2040 mm |
