2002 Lotus Exige vs. 1995 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 2002 Lotus Exige is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Lotus Exige is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Exige (177 HP) has 72 more horse power than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (105 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1995 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mazda MX-3 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2002 Lotus Exige.
Because 2002 Lotus Exige 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 2002 Lotus Exige. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Mazda MX-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, 2002 Lotus Exige (181 Nm) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (136 Nm). This means 2002 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mazda MX-3. 1995 Mazda MX-3 has automatic transmission and 2002 Lotus Exige has manual transmission. 2002 Lotus Exige will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1995 Mazda MX-3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lotus Exige | 1995 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Exige | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 177 HP | 105 HP |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 780 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 55 L |
