1960 Lotus Elite vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 49 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 1,598 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1960 Lotus Elite. (71 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1960 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 610 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, 2009 Mazda 3, 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 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Lotus Elite. (104 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1960 Lotus Elite | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Elite | 3 |
| Year Released | 1960 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1216 cc | 1598 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 582 kg | 1192 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 55 L |
