1974 Lotus Elite vs. 2013 Mazda 5
To start off, 2013 Mazda 5 is newer by 39 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 2,489 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda 5 (155 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1974 Lotus Elite. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda 5 should accelerate faster than 1974 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda 5 weights approximately 491 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, 2013 Mazda 5, 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, 2013 Mazda 5 (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2013 Mazda 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lotus Elite | 2013 Mazda 5 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Elite | 5 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 2489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.3 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1551 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1615 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 60 L |
