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 |
