1966 Lotus Seven vs. 1977 Mazda 323
To start off, 1977 Mazda 323 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 997 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Lotus Seven is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Mazda 323 (44 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Mazda 323 weights approximately 380 kg more than 1966 Lotus Seven. 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 Seven | 1977 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Seven | 323 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 432 kg | 812 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 40 L |
