1974 Lotus Eclat vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lotus Eclat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lotus Eclat would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Eclat (160 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Eclat should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 255 kg more than 1974 Lotus Eclat.
Because 1974 Lotus Eclat 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 1974 Lotus Eclat. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 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, 1974 Lotus Eclat (190 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (188 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1974 Lotus Eclat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lotus Eclat | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Eclat | 3 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.3 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
