1976 Lotus Esprit vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 1978 Mazda 626 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda 626 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1976 Lotus Esprit.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1978 Mazda 626 has automatic transmission and 1976 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1976 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Mazda 626 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Lotus Esprit | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Esprit | 626 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 79 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2520 mm |
