1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 75 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Because 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Lotus Elan | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Lotus | Mazda |
Model | Elan | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 188 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1095 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1250 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1730 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2340 mm |