1980 Lotus Esprit vs. 2008 Mazda 6
To start off, 2008 Mazda 6 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 6 weights approximately 165 kg more than 1980 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1980 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 1980 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1980 Lotus Esprit (271 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 6. (207 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 6. 2008 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 1980 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1980 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lotus Esprit | 2008 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Esprit | 6 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 207 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.4 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6 seconds | 8.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1219 kg | 1384 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2680 mm |
