1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2006 Mazda 2
To start off, 2006 Mazda 2 is newer by 37 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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Lotus Elan (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 2. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 2 weights approximately 266 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Because 1969 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 1969 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 2, 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, both vehicles can yield 146 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 2006 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Elan | 2 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 79.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 889 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 45 L |
