1998 Lotus Elise vs. 1991 Mazda 121
To start off, 1998 Lotus Elise is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lotus Elise (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1991 Mazda 121. (71 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1991 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mazda 121 weights approximately 195 kg more than 1998 Lotus Elise.
Because 1998 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 1998 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Mazda 121, 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 Elise (165 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda 121. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1998 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Lotus Elise | 1991 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Lotus | Mazda |
Model | Elise | 121 |
Year Released | 1998 | 1991 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1323 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 116 HP | 71 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 104 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 71 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.4 mm | 83.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 705 kg | 900 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 3820 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2400 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 43 L |