2003 Mitsubishi Lancer vs. 2011 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2011 Lotus Elise is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lotus Elise (217 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 294 kg more than 2011 Lotus Elise.
Because 2011 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 2011 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2011 Lotus Elise (210 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer. (176 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2011 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer | 2011 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Lotus |
| Model | Lancer | Elise |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 926 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1118 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2299 mm |
