1962 Lotus Elite vs. 1998 Mazda 121
To start off, 1998 Mazda 121 is newer by 36 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 1,242 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Lotus Elite (83 HP) has 9 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 121. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1962 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 121 weights approximately 331 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Because 1962 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 1962 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 121, 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, 1998 Mazda 121 (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elite | 1998 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Elite | 121 |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 991 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2460 mm |
