1974 Lotus Elite vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Lotus Elite is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Elite (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 68 kg more than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Because 1974 Lotus Elite 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 Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323, 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 Elite (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 Lotus Elite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 1974 Lotus Elite has manual transmission. 1974 Lotus Elite will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mazda 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lotus Elite | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Elite | 323 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.3 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1128 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
