1995 Lotus Elan vs. 1987 Mazda 929
To start off, 1995 Lotus Elan is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 2,954 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Mazda 929 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 163 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mazda 929 weights approximately 460 kg more than 1995 Lotus Elan.
Because 1987 Mazda 929 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 1987 Mazda 929. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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, 1987 Mazda 929 (247 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1987 Mazda 929 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Lotus Elan | 1987 Mazda 929 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Elan | 929 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 247 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2720 mm |
