1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1976 Mazda RX-2
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 RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1976 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1976 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1976 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 60 kg more than 1976 Mazda RX-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mazda RX-2 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 RX-2. 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 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1976 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Elan | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2480 mm |
