1969 Lotus Elan vs. 1977 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 1977 Mazda RX-3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,964 cc, 1977 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Lotus Elan (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1977 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Mazda RX-3 weights approximately 2 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan.
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, 1969 Lotus Elan (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1969 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
1969 Lotus Elan | 1977 Mazda RX-3 | |
Make | Lotus | Mazda |
Model | Elan | RX-3 |
Year Released | 1969 | 1977 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1964 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 116 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 135 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 852 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1600 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2320 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 65 L |