1968 Lotus Elan vs. 1987 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1987 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1987 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Mazda RX-7 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 800 kg more than 1968 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:
| 1968 Lotus Elan | 1987 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Elan | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 430 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2440 mm |
