1995 Lotus Elan vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1995 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, 1995 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1995 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Lotus Elan | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Elan | 3 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1140 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 |
