1999 Lotus GT 1 vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Lotus GT 1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Lotus GT 1 would be higher. At 3,504 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Lotus GT 1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus GT 1 (573 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 406 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus GT 1 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 3 weights approximately 333 kg more than 1999 Lotus GT 1.
Because 1999 Lotus GT 1 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 1999 Lotus GT 1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 1999 Lotus GT 1 (390 Nm @ 6500 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Lotus GT 1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3. 2011 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1999 Lotus GT 1 has manual transmission. 1999 Lotus GT 1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Lotus GT 1 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | GT 1 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3504 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 573 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2080 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2639 mm |
