1988 Lotus Esprit vs. 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
To start off, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,298 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (250 HP @ 3000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1988 Lotus Esprit. (172 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1988 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 1988 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lotus Esprit | 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Esprit | MazdaSpeed3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1790 mm |
