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 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 38 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 185 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, 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 Elite (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 Lotus Elite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
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 | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.3 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| 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 | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
