2005 Lotus Elise vs. 1976 Mini MK III
To start off, 2005 Lotus Elise is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mini MK III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mini MK III would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1976 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1976 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lotus Elise weights approximately 240 kg more than 1976 Mini MK III. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Mini MK III, 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, 2005 Lotus Elise (186 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2005 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mini MK III.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Lotus Elise | 1976 Mini MK III | |
Make | Lotus | Mini |
Model | Elise | MK III |
Year Released | 2005 | 1976 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 848 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 34 HP |
Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 186 Nm | 61 Nm |
Torque RPM | 6800 RPM | 2900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 610 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 |