1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 38 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 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Elan | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 60 L |
