1957 Lotus Seven vs. 1977 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 1977 Mazda RX-3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,964 cc, 1977 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1957 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 1957 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Mazda RX-3 weights approximately 407 kg more than 1957 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Lotus Seven | 1977 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Seven | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1172 cc | 1964 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 852 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 65 L |
