1968 Lotus Elan vs. 2003 Mazda Roadster
To start off, 2003 Mazda Roadster is newer by 35 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Roadster (123 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda Roadster weights approximately 180 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. Let's talk about torque, 1968 Lotus Elan (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (142 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1968 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
1968 Lotus Elan | 2003 Mazda Roadster | |
Make | Lotus | Mazda |
Model | Elan | Roadster |
Year Released | 1968 | 2003 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 116 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 142 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 83.6 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1030 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2270 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 48 L |