1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1980 Mazda 929
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 1,769 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Mazda 929 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1980 Mazda 929. (83 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1980 Mazda 929. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mazda 929 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Because 1980 Mazda 929 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 1980 Mazda 929. 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 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mazda 929. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mazda 929.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Lotus Elan | 1980 Mazda 929 | |
Make | Lotus | Mazda |
Model | Elan | 929 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
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 | 83 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 137 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1150 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4550 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2520 mm |