Japan vs United Kingdom — 1970 vs 1971
| Colt Galant GTO MR | Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 125 hp | 126 hp |
| Torque | 112 lb-ft | 117 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,597 cc | 1,558 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.5 sec | 6.7 sec |
| Top Speed | 118 mph | 120 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.0 sec | 15.2 sec |
| Weight | 2,061 lbs | 1,519 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,420 mm | 2,134 mm |
| Length | 4,100 mm | 3,658 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 1,353 |
| Original MSRP | — | $4,795 |
| Value (Excellent) | $50,000 | $75,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 8/10 |
The 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering quicker acceleration, higher top speed, lighter weight. The 1970 Mitsubishi Colt Galant GTO MR counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Putting the 1970 Mitsubishi Colt Galant GTO MR against the 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — Japan versus United Kingdom. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1970 Mitsubishi Colt Galant GTO MR producing 125 hp and the 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe delivering 126 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mitsubishi Colt Galant GTO uses a Inline-4 SOHC displacing 1,597 cc, while the Lotus Elan Sprint relies on a Inline-4 DOHC with 1,558 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe edges ahead at 6.7 seconds versus 9.5 seconds. The Lotus Elan Sprint carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 542 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe commands a significant premium over the 1970 Mitsubishi Colt Galant GTO MR, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.