1987 Lotus Esprit vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Lotus Esprit (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 21 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 1987 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 1987 Lotus Esprit. 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, 1987 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1987 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Lotus Esprit | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Esprit | 323 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.4 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| 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 | 1046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 50 L |
