1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1974 Mazda 818
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1974 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 20 kg more than 1974 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Mazda 818 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 1974 Mazda 818. 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 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Lotus Elan | 1974 Mazda 818 | |
Make | Lotus | Mazda |
Model | Elan | 818 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 68 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 92 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1000 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1600 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2320 mm |