1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 14 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 (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 3 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1991 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Elan | 3 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1349 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2650 mm |
