1965 Lotus Elan vs. 1996 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1996 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 31 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 2,616 cc, 1996 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda RX-7 (238 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1965 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1965 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 642 kg more than 1965 Lotus Elan. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Lotus Elan | 1996 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Elan | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1302 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 77 L |
