2003 Lotus Elise vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2003 Lotus Elise is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lotus Elise (121 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 370 kg more than 2003 Lotus Elise.
Because 2003 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 2003 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323, 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, 2003 Lotus Elise (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Lotus Elise | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
Make | Lotus | Mazda |
Model | Elise | 323 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1840 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 121 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 175 Nm | 162 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 1120 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4320 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2620 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 55 L |