2008 Lotus Elise vs. 1999 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2008 Lotus Elise is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1999 Mitsubishi Lancer. (111 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1999 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 240 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, 1999 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, 2008 Lotus Elise (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mitsubishi Lancer. (137 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lotus Elise | 1999 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Lotus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Elise | Lancer |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1400 mm |
