1979 Lotus Esprit vs. 2005 Mazda 6
To start off, 2005 Mazda 6 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 6 (165 HP) has 5 more horse power than 1979 Lotus Esprit. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1979 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1979 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 1979 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 6, 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, 1979 Lotus Esprit (217 Nm) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 6. (205 Nm). This means 1979 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lotus Esprit | 2005 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Esprit | 6 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 165 HP |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 218 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2680 mm |
