1962 Lotus Elite vs. 2012 Mazda 2
To start off, 2012 Mazda 2 is newer by 50 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 1,560 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 2 (95 HP) has 12 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 2 weights approximately 440 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.
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, 2012 Mazda 2, 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, 2012 Mazda 2 (205 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elite | 2012 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Elite | 2 |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 95 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 174 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1695 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1475 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2489 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 43 L |
