1979 Lotus Eclat vs. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lotus Eclat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lotus Eclat would be higher. At 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Lotus Eclat is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 90 kg more than 1979 Lotus Eclat.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lotus Eclat | 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Eclat | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 139 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2270 mm |
