1965 Lotus Elan vs. 1980 Mazda Cosmo
To start off, 1980 Mazda Cosmo is newer by 15 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 1,769 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Mazda Cosmo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1965 Lotus Elan (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1980 Mazda Cosmo. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1965 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1980 Mazda Cosmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mazda Cosmo weights approximately 430 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 | 1980 Mazda Cosmo | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Elan | Cosmo |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1769 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 65 L |
