1962 Lotus Elite vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 47 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP) has 75 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 532 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elite | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Elite | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 158 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1192 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 50 L |
