2007 Lotus Elise vs. 1976 Mini MK III
To start off, 2007 Lotus Elise is newer by 31 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), 2007 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1976 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1976 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Lotus Elise weights approximately 175 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 2007 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 2007 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, 2007 Lotus Elise (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2007 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mini MK III.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Lotus Elise | 1976 Mini MK III | |
Make | Lotus | Mini |
Model | Elise | MK III |
Year Released | 2007 | 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 | 120 HP | 34 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 169 Nm | 61 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 785 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 |