1965 Lotus Elan vs. 1978 Mazda 121
To start off, 1978 Mazda 121 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1965 Lotus Elan (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1965 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda 121 weights approximately 470 kg more than 1965 Lotus Elan.
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.
Compare all specifications:
1965 Lotus Elan | 1978 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Lotus | Mazda |
Model | Elan | 121 |
Year Released | 1965 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 86 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1130 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2520 mm |