1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1976 Mazda Cosmo
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 1,769 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Mazda Cosmo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1976 Mazda Cosmo. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1976 Mazda Cosmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mazda Cosmo weights approximately 70 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Because 1976 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 1976 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 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mazda Cosmo. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mazda Cosmo. 1976 Mazda Cosmo has automatic transmission and 1996 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1996 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Mazda Cosmo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Lotus Elan | 1976 Mazda Cosmo | |
Make | Lotus | Mazda |
Model | Elan | Cosmo |
Year Released | 1996 | 1976 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1769 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 93 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 150 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1090 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2520 mm |