1988 Mazda 323 vs. 2011 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2011 Lotus Elise is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1988 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lotus Elise weights approximately 42 kg more than 1988 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Lotus Elise 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 2011 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2011 Lotus Elise (180 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2011 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mazda 323 | 2011 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Mazda | Lotus |
| Model | 323 | Elise |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1323 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 912 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1118 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2299 mm |
