1961 Lotus Seven vs. 2010 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2010 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,300 cc, 2010 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda RX-8 (212 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1961 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1961 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 979 kg more than 1961 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. 2010 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1961 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1961 Lotus Seven will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Lotus Seven | 2010 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Seven | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 432 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 64 L |
