1998 Lotus Elise vs. 2009 Mazda 6
To start off, 2009 Mazda 6 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 2,487 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lotus Elise (187 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 6. (168 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 6.
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, 2009 Mazda 6, 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 (193 Nm @ 5600 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 6. (167 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lotus Elise | 2009 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Elise | 6 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2487 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1850 mm |
