1980 Lotus Eclat vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lotus Eclat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lotus Eclat would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (282 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1980 Lotus Eclat. (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Lotus Eclat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 381 kg more than 1980 Lotus Eclat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Lotus Eclat 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 1980 Lotus Eclat. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Mazda 3 (576 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 359 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lotus Eclat. (217 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lotus Eclat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lotus Eclat | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Eclat | 3 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 576 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1104 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
