1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1968 Mazda Cosmo
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 1,964 cc, 1968 Mazda Cosmo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP) has 69 more horse power than 1968 Mazda Cosmo. (94 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1968 Mazda Cosmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 80 kg more than 1968 Mazda Cosmo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Mazda Cosmo 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 1968 Mazda Cosmo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mazda Cosmo. (133 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Mazda Cosmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1968 Mazda Cosmo | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Elan | Cosmo |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1964 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 94 HP |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1170 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2210 mm |
