1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1998 Mazda Laputa
To start off, 1998 Mazda Laputa is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 103 more horse power than 1998 Mazda Laputa. (57 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda Laputa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Lotus Elan weights approximately 187 kg more than 1998 Mazda Laputa. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mazda Laputa is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda Laputa will offer significantly more control. 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, 1991 Lotus Elan (143 Nm) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda Laputa. (83 Nm). This means 1991 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda Laputa. 1998 Mazda Laputa has automatic transmission and 1991 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1991 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mazda Laputa will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 1998 Mazda Laputa | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Elan | Laputa |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 658 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 57 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 65 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 66 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2370 mm |
