1968 Lotus Europa vs. 1995 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 1995 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Europa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Europa would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Mazda MX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Mazda MX-3 (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Europa. (76 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Europa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mazda MX-3 weights approximately 449 kg more than 1968 Lotus Europa. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Lotus Europa 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 Europa. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Mazda MX-3, 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, 1995 Mazda MX-3 (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Lotus Europa. (103 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1995 Mazda MX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Lotus Europa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Lotus Europa | 1995 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Europa | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1470 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1059 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1080 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 65 L |
