1995 Lotus Esprit vs. 1971 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 1995 Lotus Esprit is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1971 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Lotus Esprit (286 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1971 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1971 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 379 kg more than 1971 Mazda RX-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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 Esprit (354 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mazda RX-2. (158 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1995 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Lotus Esprit | 1971 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Esprit | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 286 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 354 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1339 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2480 mm |
