1966 Lotus Elan vs. 1983 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1983 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1983 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Mazda RX-7 (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 400 kg more than 1966 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:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 1983 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Elan | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1556 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 65 L |
