1981 Lotus Esprit vs. 1995 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 1995 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lotus Esprit (208 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1995 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 141 kg more than 1995 Mazda MX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Mazda MX-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, 1981 Lotus Esprit (277 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1981 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Lotus Esprit | 1995 Mazda MX-3 | |
Make | Lotus | Mazda |
Model | Esprit | MX-3 |
Year Released | 1981 | 1995 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2172 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 208 HP | 106 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 277 Nm | 134 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1059 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4230 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2460 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 71 L | 65 L |