1995 Lotus Esprit vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,261 cc, 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Lotus Esprit (286 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (257 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 1995 Lotus Esprit 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 1995 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3, 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Lotus Esprit. (354 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Lotus Esprit | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Esprit | 3 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2261 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 286 HP | 257 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 354 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 265 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 55 L |
