1989 Lotus Elan vs. 1979 Mazda Cosmo

To start off, 1989 Lotus Elan is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 1,768 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mazda Cosmo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1979 Mazda Cosmo. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda Cosmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda Cosmo weights approximately 70 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan.

Because 1979 Mazda Cosmo 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 1979 Mazda Cosmo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan, 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, 1989 Lotus Elan (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda Cosmo. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda Cosmo.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Lotus Elan 1979 Mazda Cosmo
Make Lotus Mazda
Model Elan Cosmo
Year Released 1989 1979
Body Type Convertible Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1588 cc 1768 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 165 HP 93 HP
Engine RPM 6600 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 201 Nm 150 Nm
Torque RPM 4200 RPM 3300 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80.1 mm 80 mm
Engine Stroke Size 79 mm 88 mm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1020 kg 1090 kg
Vehicle Length 3810 mm 4480 mm
Vehicle Width 1740 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1240 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2260 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 65 L 65 L


 

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