1998 Lotus 340 R vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lotus 340 R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lotus 340 R would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lotus 340 R (190 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (144 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lotus 340 R should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 548 kg more than 1998 Lotus 340 R.
Because 1998 Lotus 340 R 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 1998 Lotus 340 R. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1998 Lotus 340 R (198 Nm) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (184 Nm). This means 1998 Lotus 340 R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lotus 340 R | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | 340 R | 3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 675 kg | 1223 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 55 L |
