1968 Lotus Elan vs. 2003 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2003 Mazda RX-8 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 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 575 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, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1968 Lotus Elan | 2003 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Lotus | Mazda |
Model | Elan | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1968 | 2003 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1308 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 116 HP | 228 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 8200 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 211 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1425 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 61 L |