1962 Lotus Elite vs. 1983 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1983 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1983 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Mazda RX-7 (105 HP) has 22 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 400 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elite. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1983 Mazda RX-7 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1983 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elite | 1983 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Elite | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 105 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 65 L |
