1963 Lotus Seven vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (160 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1963 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1963 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 810 kg more than 1963 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 Lotus Seven 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 Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3, 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. 2003 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1963 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1963 Lotus Seven will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Lotus Seven | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Seven | 3 |
| Year Released | 1963 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 430 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 55 L |
