1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2010 Mazda 3
To start off, 2010 Mazda 3 is newer by 14 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2010 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2010 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda 3 weights approximately 280 kg more 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mazda 3. 2010 Mazda 3 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. 2010 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Lotus Elan | 2010 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Lotus | Mazda |
Model | Elan | 3 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2000 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 | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2639 mm |