2008 Lotus Elise vs. 1988 Mitsubishi Magna
To start off, 2008 Lotus Elise is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mitsubishi Magna. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mitsubishi Magna would be higher. At 2,555 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Mitsubishi Magna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1988 Mitsubishi Magna. (112 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1988 Mitsubishi Magna. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mitsubishi Magna weights approximately 435 kg more than 2008 Lotus Elise.
Because 2008 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 2008 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Mitsubishi Magna, 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, 1988 Mitsubishi Magna (195 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Lotus Elise. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Mitsubishi Magna will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lotus Elise | 1988 Mitsubishi Magna | |
| Make | Lotus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Elise | Magna |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 2555 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2600 mm |
