1960 Lotus Elite vs. 1996 Mazda RX-01
To start off, 1996 Mazda RX-01 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 2,615 cc, 1996 Mazda RX-01 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda RX-01 (217 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1960 Lotus Elite. (71 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-01 should accelerate faster than 1960 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda RX-01 weights approximately 518 kg more than 1960 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1960 Lotus Elite 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 1960 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-01, 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, 1996 Mazda RX-01 (220 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Lotus Elite. (104 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda RX-01 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1960 Lotus Elite | 1996 Mazda RX-01 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Elite | RX-01 |
| Year Released | 1960 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1216 cc | 2615 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 582 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2350 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 55 L |
