1966 Lotus Elan vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 43 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 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 633 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, 2009 Mazda 3, 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (381 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 234 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1966 Lotus Elan | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Lotus | Mazda |
Model | Elan | 3 |
Year Released | 1966 | 2009 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1557 cc | 2260 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 263 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 147 Nm | 381 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
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 | 1329 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |