1985 Lotus Excel vs. 1989 Mazda 323

To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Lotus Excel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Lotus Excel would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Lotus Excel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Lotus Excel (181 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Lotus Excel should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Lotus Excel weights approximately 301 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1985 Lotus Excel 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 1985 Lotus Excel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323, 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, 1985 Lotus Excel (232 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1985 Lotus Excel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.

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