1966 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 Mazda Etude
To start off, 2005 Mazda Etude is newer by 39 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 1,594 cc, 2005 Mazda Etude is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Lotus Elan (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2005 Mazda Etude. (99 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda Etude. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda Etude weights approximately 349 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan.
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, 2005 Mazda Etude, 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. Let's talk about torque, 1966 Lotus Elan (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda Etude. (142 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1966 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda Etude.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 2005 Mazda Etude | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Elan | Etude |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1557 cc | 1594 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 186 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 1045 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
