1994 Lotus Elan vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1994 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1994 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 109 kg more than 1994 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mazda RX-8 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1994 Lotus Elan | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Lotus | Mazda |
Model | Elan | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1994 | 2006 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1311 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 232 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 8500 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 216 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1129 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2710 mm |