1963 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 Mazda 6
To start off, 2005 Mazda 6 is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 6 (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1963 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1963 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 6 weights approximately 813 kg more than 1963 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 Lotus Elan 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 1963 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 6, 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, 2005 Mazda 6 (210 Nm) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Lotus Elan. (138 Nm). This means 2005 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Lotus Elan | 2005 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Elan | 6 |
| Year Released | 1963 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.7 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 594 kg | 1407 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 68 L |
