1989 Lotus Elan vs. 1972 Mazda Luce
To start off, 1989 Lotus Elan is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mazda Luce. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mazda Luce would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1972 Mazda Luce. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1972 Mazda Luce. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Mazda Luce weights approximately 130 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Let's talk about torque, 1989 Lotus Elan (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mazda Luce. (118 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mazda Luce.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lotus Elan | 1972 Mazda Luce | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Elan | Luce |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2510 mm |
