1968 Lotus Elan vs. 1992 Mazda MX-6
To start off, 1992 Mazda MX-6 is newer by 24 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Mazda MX-6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Mazda MX-6 (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Mazda MX-6 should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Mazda MX-6 weights approximately 329 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.
Because 1968 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 1968 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Mazda MX-6, 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, 1992 Mazda MX-6 (173 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1992 Mazda MX-6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Lotus Elan | 1992 Mazda MX-6 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Elan | MX-6 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1179 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2620 mm |
