1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2010 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2010 Mazda RX-8 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 370 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 Mazda RX-8 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 2010 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2010 Mazda RX-8 (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2010 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Lotus Elan | 2010 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Lotus | Mazda |
Model | Elan | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1300 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 232 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 8500 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 215 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1390 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4460 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1341 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2700 mm |