1974 Lotus Elite 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 Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 2,258 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (156 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1974 Lotus Elite. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 65 kg more than 1974 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lotus Elite | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Elite | 3 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 2258 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
