1966 Lotus Elan vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 32 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 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 468 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.
Because 1966 Lotus Elan 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 1966 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323, 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. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 1966 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1966 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mazda 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Elan | 323 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1556 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1128 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 55 L |
