2009 Lotus Elise vs. 1997 Mitsubishi Colt
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mitsubishi Colt. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mitsubishi Colt would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (218 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1997 Mitsubishi Colt. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1997 Mitsubishi Colt. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lotus Elise weights approximately 5 kg more than 1997 Mitsubishi Colt. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mitsubishi Colt, 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, 2009 Lotus Elise (212 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mitsubishi Colt. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mitsubishi Colt.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lotus Elise | 1997 Mitsubishi Colt | |
| Make | Lotus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Elise | Colt |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 212 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2430 mm |
