1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2009 Mazda CX-9
To start off, 2009 Mazda CX-9 is newer by 13 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 3,727 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda CX-9 (268 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Mazda CX-9 (269 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan. 2009 Mazda CX-9 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. 2009 Mazda CX-9 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 2009 Mazda CX-9 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Elan | CX-9 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3727 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 269 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2340 mm |
