2002 Lotus Elise vs. 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2002 Lotus Elise is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 (134 HP) has 60 more horse power than 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 244 kg more than 2002 Lotus Elise.
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, 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer, 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 (175 Nm @ 4850 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer. (113 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lotus Elise | 1986 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Lotus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Elise | Lancer |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4850 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 756 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2390 mm |
