1962 Lotus Elite vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP) has 84 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 479 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, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Lotus | Mazda |
Model | Elite | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1962 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1215 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 83 HP | 167 HP |
Torque | 102 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1139 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 3995 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1245 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2329 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 48 L |