1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1984 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1984 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1984 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1984 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Because 1984 Mazda RX-7 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 1984 Mazda RX-7. 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 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1984 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Elan | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2430 mm |
