1997 Lotus Elise vs. 2007 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1997 Lotus Elise. (117 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 3 weights approximately 783 kg more than 1997 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Lotus Elise 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 1997 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3, 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, 2007 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Lotus Elise. (169 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Lotus Elise | 2007 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Lotus | Mazda |
Model | Elise | 3 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2261 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 117 HP | 256 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 169 Nm | 380 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.4 mm | 94 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 705 kg | 1488 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4770 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.3 L/100km | 9.7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |