2005 Lotus Elise vs. 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger
To start off, 2005 Lotus Elise is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger would be higher. At 2,835 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger weights approximately 960 kg more than 2005 Lotus Elise.
Because 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Lotus Elise. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger will offer significantly more control. 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, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Lotus Elise. (186 Nm @ 6800 RPM). This means 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lotus Elise | 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger | |
| Make | Lotus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Elise | Challenger |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Roadster | SUV |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2730 mm |
