1989 Lotus Esprit vs. 1998 Mazda 121
To start off, 1998 Mazda 121 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Esprit (216 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 157 kg more than 1998 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 121, 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 Esprit (298 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Lotus Esprit | 1998 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Lotus | Mazda |
Model | Esprit | 121 |
Year Released | 1989 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1242 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 216 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 298 Nm | 110 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1148 kg | 991 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2460 mm |