1978 Lotus Esprit vs. 2010 Mazda 3
To start off, 2010 Mazda 3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda 3 weights approximately 340 kg more than 1978 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1978 Lotus Esprit 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 1978 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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. 2010 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1978 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1978 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Lotus Esprit | 2010 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Lotus | Mazda |
Model | Esprit | 3 |
Year Released | 1978 | 2010 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1972 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 0 HP | 148 HP |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2639 mm |