1984 Lotus Esprit vs. 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
To start off, 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1984 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster than 1984 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 weights approximately 113 kg more than 1984 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 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 1984 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3, 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 MazdaSpeed3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Lotus Esprit. (217 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Lotus Esprit | 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Esprit | MazdaSpeed3 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1067 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.3 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 55 L |
